Happy Friday - Cute Girls doing Golf Tricks Together

OK, first of all: pleated golf skirts!

They're definitely hot right now and a number of companies are featuring them in current and upcoming collections. I'll be doing a post on this trend in the coming days. And don't worry ladies, they come in all lengths... you just choose the one that's right for you.

I think these girls made the right choice.



Thanks go to Victor Minuesa, from Barcelona, for sending me this awesome little video.

Rickie Fowler & The Mayor of Quail Hollow Putting Green

The ever intrepid Greg Moore is on the scene this week at Quail Hollow, armed with his camera and a keen sense of observation.

In addition to his skills as a roving reporter, Mr. Moore is also an avid user/player of Foursquare, the ultra-popular, geo-social networking service/game. I'm into Foursquare too, but I'm not a great player because I always...um... forget to "check in".

So naturally I was green with envy just a wee bit envious when I saw that Greg had become mayor of the Quail Hollow Putting Green AND the Quail Hollow Practice Range. Then I come to find out he's mayor of 46 places! Really cool places too... like Torey Pines Golf Course, Honda Classic Media Center and Riviera Country Club. And a Waffle House. The only mayorship I've managed to garner is that of Golf Girl Media World Headquarters and that's only because I work, sleep and recreate there. I mean here.

So yes, I'll admit it, I did harbor a moment of resentment for Mr. Moore's multiple mayorships... and all the colorful badges he'd collected in the game... but it was quickly forgotten when he sent me this great photo of one of our favorite players: the remarkable Rickie Fowler who's getting ready to play in the Quail Hollow Championship for the first time.

Greg took the shot earlier this week... at the Quail Hollow Putting Green. Thank you Mr. Mayor.

Fast & Fearless meet Glitz & Glamor - Mojo 6 Golf

The players are elite, the action is intense and the prize money is impressive.

As in:
★ The world's Top players
★ Raceway Golf (Fast/Short/Cut-throat)
★ A $1 million purse

OK, enough said. It's Mojo 6 and it's on CBS this weekend... May 1 & 2... from 2-3PM ET. ~ It's golf like you’ve never imagined it.

Tip: ~ Get a few "non-golf fans" or "on-the-fence golf fans" to watch it with you. You know the ones who typically throw something at you when you change the channel to golf. This might just be the perfect remedy for those who say our sport is too...what's the word they use?... sedate. The Mojo 6 is anything but sedate. Oh... and it all takes place at breathtaking Cinnamon Hill Golf Course in Montego Bay, Jamaica. That's the paradisical icing-on-the-cake.

And there are some other fun ways to get in on the Mojo action:

Join the live LPGA viewing party - It takes place at the LPGA's Facebook page. ~ Head over there during the telecast and check in to the "live chat". There'll be fans galore and guest appearances by participating players.



Also...Follow Mojo 6 on Facebook and Twitter for additional coverage.

And...Get a sneak peek at the action on the Mojo 6 YouTube channel.

Strong Start to the Golf Season for the Birdie Sisters

Chicago was chilly and wet this past weekend but that didn't deter the Birdie Sisters as they headed to the course for the Illinois Junior Golf Classic.

The tournament took place at St. Andrews Country Club in West Chicago about 34 miles from their home, and several times on the drive out, the girls looked skyward, hoping a warming sun would appear.

But that didn't happen. Temperatures remained stubbornly entrenched in the low 50's throughout the weekend while intermittent rain ensured an added chill... and the prospect of a couple of bad hair days. But Erica and Myah Jackson don't take their golf lightly, and this was the season opener. So, they put on a couple of layers and tackled the tournament

Conditions were tough as was the competition both girls felt like they were still shaking off some winter rust by at the end of the day Myah held onto 2nd place in the competitive 9-10 age group and Erica won the 11-12s. You'll find details of each of the Birdie Sister's rounds are on their website.

Oh, and in addition to their golf Erica and Myah are also doing radio. They've got their own show on WSTR Radio where each week they interview golf luminaries from all facets of the game. I help them out with the show and they're a pure pleasure to work with. Keep up with their progress throughout the summer and tune in to the show every Friday. I promise you'll be impressed.

ENC - Of Hamster Balls & Making Out With Matadors

Sweden won its first ever European Nations Cup today at La Sella Resort in Dénia, Alicante Spain. Anna Nordqvist and Sophie Gustafson were completely in synch; each did exactly what was called for to produce the eagle needed to force a playoff.

In Gustafson's case it was an extraordinary approach shot with a seven-wood from 212 yards... which Nordqvist followed with a steely six foot putt... on the 448-yard par-five 18th hole. That gave the pair a 68 and put them into a playoff with the Australian team of Karrie Webb and Karen Lunn. Three holes later Sweden won with a birdie when Webb hit a perfect 20 foot putt that just didn't drop. Veronica Zorzi and Giulia Sergas finished third, further demonstrating Italy's growing place in International golf.

The Comunitat Valenciana European Nations Cup featured 18 teams and prize money of €350,000. the format was fourball on the first and third days and "Valencian Cup" where, "where the players tee off then switch and play their partner’s ball for the next shot (on par 4s) and for the next two shots (on par 5s) before selecting the best ball and completing the hole in alternate shot (foursome) format. On par 3s the best tee shot is selected before completing the hole with the same ball in alternate shots."

Australian and the USA were the only countries outside of Europe represented. Beth Daniel and Meg Mallon made up the US team and shared a fifth place finish with France.

By all accounts, this tournament, now in its fourth year, is particularly festive and light-hearted, and a favorite among players, sponsors and fans. Ms. Mallon's intimate interlude with Oscar Higares, a swarthy Spanish matador, would certainly seem to support that. Apparently the impromptu make out session came as the hall-of-fame golfer entertained the audience at the tournament's opening dinner. Can you say: The Sun Also Rises?

The fun continued a couple of nights later when the players climbed into a clear plastic bubble know as a hamster ball... and floated around the swimming pool in it.

The Ladies European Tour website has the whole story and lots more photos, you can also check out the tournament site.

Meanwhile, I think I'll go re-read some Hemingway.

When in doubt, redo - Episode 98 - The Knitmore Girls

Listen here:


This week's episode has been sponsored by:

Have you tried Tencel? Abstract Fiber has merino/ Tencel blend yarn and fibers. With warm weather coming, Tencel blends are just right. They're cooler than pure wool and have a smooth sleek surface. MightySock makes a great warp yarn for lightweight woven scarves perfect for spring days and cool summer evenings. The drape of Tencel shows lace off beautifully. Check AbstractFiber.com to puchase merino/tencel blends online or for a list of stores near you.


The Purlescence Purl Girls are "bobbin" and weaving this spring! From spinning wheels and rigid heddle looms, to floor loom, we're stocked and ready to set you up for your own fiber art adventures. Check out our full lines of spinning and weaving supplies from Schacht and Ashford. As always, we're happy to ship to you no matter where you are!





Think Outside the SOX , the latest from XRX Books, features over 60 winning designs from the Knitter’s Magazine contest. This ultimate sock book highlights many design processes, innovative constructions and updates on traditional techniques and just plain beautiful socks. Extensive charts and diagrams, illustrated explanations, and detailed photographs all round out this how-to for everything socks. There’s no better time to be a sock knitter! You can find us on the web at http://KnittingUniverse.com/SOX/ or call 800-232-5648.

On the needles: (00:33)

Gigi is on a finishing kick! She has finished her first Gull Wing Sock, and is coming to a rapid close on the second. Jasmin has finished her Mondo Cable Cardi. Gigi has finished her Mondo Cable Pulli. Jasmin pulled her Carli out of the UFO bin.

Gigi is knitting an adaptation of the Annie Modesitt Ruffled Rose scarf. Jasmin continues to work on the Creatively Dyed J'ouvert Socks for Andrew (colorway "Cake"). Jasmin has started her Tempest cardigan! Gigi sewed a zipper in Miss Kalendar (from Brass Needles)'s Ribbi Cardi.

We forgot our two-year podcastiversary!

Events: (22:00)

- Maryland Sheep & Wool Festival: 5/1-2. Meet and greet will be happening on Saturday, 5/1 from 11-1pm.
- Please RSVP here.
- The meet and greet will be located at the Columbia Sip N Knit hospitality area (to the left of the main gate, outside the main gate). You can meet the Savvy Girls in the same spot on Sunday at 10:30.
- Spinning at the Retzlaff Winery: 6/5

Contest: (24:15)
The Project Runway inspired contest! Use your imagination, and post to the contest thread. We'll be closing the contest on 5/8, and announcing the winners in the 5/9 episode.

Mother knows best: (27:54)

When in doubt, redo.

When knitting attacks! (36:01)

Gigi has a fringe attack while working on her Lady Eleanor! (You can find the pattern for the Lady Eleanor in Scarf Style.) Jasmin re-does her armhole bind-off a million times.

Straw into Gold: (46:06)

Jasmin talks about spinning the Wensleydale from the Crown Mountain Fiber Club (color "Sunrise over Kachanjunga").

Dear Japan, Why is Your Golf Stuff so Damn Awesome?

I try not to look, because when I do I tend to get frustrated... and wind up in a state of agitation, stress and anxiety.

Well this morning I succumbed.

Knowing it would be a full day of writing, editing and admin, I convinced myself it wouldn't hurt to take a quick peek at some of my "To Read" bookmarks.

I breezed through the WSJ story on the waning art of stamp collecting and the Times Online piece on male vanity. Both were interesting and well written.

I was about finish my bookmark break with Slate's No Hipsters in China post when my eyes wandered over to my "Don't Look Here" bookmarks. To make a long story short, I did look there and just one stop... here... was all it took. Within a few minutes I was overcome with lust. "Japanese Golf Product Lust" to be exact. It inevitably comes over me when I'm confronted by images of alluring apparel and awesome accessories that aren't unavailable on US shores.

The orgy of Ryo-licious colors and Momoko-dorable styles always begs the question: Why them and not us? At least it does for me.

Anyway, after overdosing on the likes of Golden Ratio, Kappa Golf and the ultra-Japan-tabulous Dance With Dragon, I finally tore myself away from the tantalizing display...

Yes, I'm back to work. But after my little Japanese golf fashion foray I'm having a bit of trouble focusing.

The Birdy & Grace Golf Woman of the Year - Is it You?

Do you know a woman with a passion for golf, family, community and healthy living? Or maybe you are that woman.

That's the type of woman who inspires golf apparel designer Birdy & Grace, and that's what they're looking for in their Golf Woman of the Year.

When they find her she'll be flown to New York City, then whisked up to gracious Greenwich, Connecticut (my hometown!) for a photo shoot with a top fashion photography team. Because the Golf Woman of the Year will be the featured model for Birdy & Grace Spring 2011. In addition to the trip and the photo shoot, the winner will receive custom fitted outfits by Birdy & Grace and a stylish, Sweet Spot putter.

The thing I love about Birdy & Grace is the way they blend fun, flirty and fashionable with perfectly functional. They consider things like pocket placement, fabric texture and length to ensure a flattering fit on all body types and full range of motion for every aspect of the golf swing. Each item in each Birdy & Grace collection is both contemporary and classic and designed to work equally well on the course and in town.

Sharon Sunoo and Teress Stephens founded their company to create golf clothes with stellar street style. Clothes that could comply with even the strictest country club dress code, but still shine on the streets of New York, and that's what they've done with Birdy & Grace.

The rules/requirements for Golf Woman of the Year are pretty simple, and you can nominate yourself or someone you know. The nominee must be an avid amateur woman golfer over the age of 25 and must answer this: What does golf mean to you; where you see the future of women’s golf; what social causes are important to you and why; and why would you make a great ambassador for Birdy & Grace.

Each entry must be accompanied by a photo, and the deadline for entries is June 15, 2010. All entries must be submitted to their Facebook fan page or to info@birdy&grace.com.

Good Luck Golf Girls!

"1 Million Shirts" Jason Sadler's New Initiative

From the creative, caring mind of Jason Sadler comes 1 Million Shirts, a charity that has as its goal to get 1,000,000 t-shirts donated to clothe people in Africa.

As you might remember, I've worked with Jason on a couple of social media... initiatives... in the past, and his talent, enthusiasm and humor have made them hugely successful.

For well over a year now shirts have been Jason's thing. He's the creator of I Wear Your Shirt. He's worn a different t-shirt from companies all over the world for almost 500+ consecutive days! So it's no surprise that when he decided to give back, he came up with a plan involving them. And you can participate, as Jason explains on his site.

Here are a few ideas to start with:

- Donate your t-shirts
- Share 1MillionShirts.org on Social Media
- Fan on Facebook: http://facebook.com/1MillionShirts
- Tweet about #1MillionShirts
- Use their Press Release to share in mainstream media
- Become a Sponsor of 1MillionShirts

Centsible - Episode 97 - The Knitmore Girls

Listen here:


This week's episode has been sponsored by:

Have you ever spun blue faced leicester blended with silk? Soft, sparkly, airy, very easy to spin. Abstract Fiber has a blend of 75% BFL and 25% tussah silk that spins like a dream. Our eye-catching colors just glow with some silk in the mix. Available in nearly all our brillian Abstract Fiber colorways. Check it online or at our next show. Free shipping for orders over $100 at AbstractFiber.com


In honor of Earth Day Purlescence Yarns is pleased to bring you Lorna's Laces Green Line at a 40% discount. We have both the Green Line Worsted which knits at 4 1/2 sts per inch and Green Line DK which knits at 5 1/2 sts per inch in stock. Lorna's Laces Green Line is 100% organic merino wool. We have lots of other green yarns, too! Rowan British Sheep Breeds both the Aran and DK are specialty yarns grown from heritage breeds and brought to you in all their undyed glory. Rowan Revive is a beautiful tweedy yarn made up of recycled silk, cotton and viscose. Manos del Uruguay Rittenhouse Merino 5-ply and Silk Blend come from a certified Fair Trade Company dedicated to helping the communities in which its yarns are produced!



STITCHES South offers something for everyone. This 4-day event brings thousands together in Atlanta, GA for workshops, demonstrations, author signings, and door prizes. It showcases beautiful yarn, books, gadgets, patterns, & buttons in a market full of retailers from across the country. If it has to do with knitting, you will find it here. STITCHES South is open to the general public April 23rd-25th. For more information please join us online at http://KnittingUniverse.com/Events/ or call 1-800-237-7099.

On the needles: (00:33)

Jasmin is on the home stretch of her Mondo Cable Cardi. Gigi has finished the knitting on her Mondo Cable Pulli. Gigi has input a bunch of projects on her Ravelry page. (Tutorial?) We talk about learning "in bulk". Jasmin mentions the Knitter's Companion (but calls it the Knitter's Handbook). Jasmin has cast on a pair of Creatively Dyed "J'ouvert" in "Cake" for Andrew.

Gigi has cast on a pair of Gull Wing Socks in the Serendipitous Ewe "Chance Sock" in "White Birch". Jasmin is casting on a pair of Meilenweit Multi Jacquard socks for Andrew (color 508). Jasmin has done her plying swatches for her Tempest cardigan. Jasmin refers to this post by the Yarn Harlot.

Events: (20:23)

- Maryland Sheep & Wool Festival: 5/1-2. Meet and greet will be happening on Saturday, 5/1 from 11-1pm. The meet and greet will be located at the Columbia Sip N Knit hospitality area (to the left of the main gate, outside the main gate). (Jasmin refers to Episode 39 of KIPing it Real for the whole scoop on the meet'n'greet.)
- Spinning at the Retzlaff Winery: 6/5

Contest! (24:18)

The Project Runway inspired contest! Use your imagination, and post to the contest thread. We'll be closing the contest on 5/8, and announcing the winners in the 5/9 episode.

Mother knows best: (26:54)

We talk about knitting on a budget. Some tips:

- Knit lace/fine gauge projects.
- Finish one project, buy one project.
- Yarn swaps!
- Trade (babysitting for yarn)
- Knit samples for yarn companies/designers
- Comparison shop
- Give KnitCents a listen!

When knitting attacks! (37:31)

Gigi gets her Frost Flowers Stole in a twist. Jasmin knits her sleeves too long. Gigi makes a pair of enormous entrelac socks (out of Socks, Socks, Socks).

Review! (42:25)

This week, we review the Serendipitous Ewe's "Chance Sock" yarn (four *tentative* thumbs up), and Toe-Up! Patterns and Worksheets to Whip Your Sock Knitting Into Shape by Chrissy Gardener (four enthusiastic thumbs up). Jasmin compares it to Nancy Bush's Folk Socks.

PUMA - Clever Little Bag, Awesome Little Golf Shoes

I've loved their golf shoes forever. In fact, I just ordered my fourth pair.
Now I love their Clever Little Bags too.

I ♥ Rickie Fowler's Incandescent Awesomeness

My friend Greg is down in Hilton Head this week, taking in the action ... and taking some awesome candid shots... at the Verizon Heritage Classic. Yesterday he sent me this one suggesting it might "brighten my mid-week morning". He was right, it did.

Mr. Fowler's radiant pointsettia golf polo seems to glow in the South Carolina sunshine as the exceptional young PUMA golfer once again demonstrates he's got the chromatic creds to pull off the brightest brights.

His golf game is looking pretty brilliant as well. He finished the first round at -3 which included an eagle on the second hole. There's a lot to like about Rickie Fowler but more than than anything else it's his attitude, which was reflected perfectly in this quote from a recent Golf Magazine cover story. "If you hit a poor shot, big deal! Golf is meant to be fun, even when it's your living."

What's not to ♥ about that?

For more of Greg's Verison Heritage photos, check out facebook.

Golf, the Sport - Of Reputations and Perceptions

The past year, by any measure, has been a tumultuous time for golf.

An economic crisis and a salacious sex scandal, each hit the sport at hitherto unimaginable levels and a general feeling of malaise prevailed.

As a result there was a collective sigh of relief from golf business and media people last weekend when the Masters turned out the way it did, and a palpable ambiance of euphoria now prevails in the hallways of the golf blogosphere and... no doubt... in the conference rooms of many golf corporations.

However, the perceptions of the casual fan and the outside observers might be more difficult to alter as this Sports Central post indicates.

I'm wondering this: do we as golfers and/or avid golf fans pay enough attention to what non-golfers and casual fans think about golf, and should we?

Photo via MaxPhotos

Giveaway: New SkyGolf Mobil Scoring iPhone App

If you're like me, this is going be the year you make some quantifiable improvements to your game.

I know it's not easy, but I've got a great instructor and I've the perfect on-course scoring companion: SG Mobile Scoring.

SG Mobile Scoring is a new iPhone app from SkyGolf for scoring your round and tracking your advanced stats. It's got tons of functionality and everything's explained at the the SkyGolf website.

And... SkyGolf has given me 10 promo codes for this awesome app... to give away to you. Just send me an email... or leave a comment below... and I'll hook you up. In either case, make sure you include your email address. ~ Then we can get busy improving those games.

Intermittant knittin' - Episode 96 - The Knitmore Girls

Listen here:


This week's episode has been sponsored by:

Have you ever spun Blue Faced Leicester blended with silk? Soft, sparkly, airy, very easy to spin. Abstract Fiber has a blend of 75% BFL and 25% tussah silk that spins like a dream. Our eye-catching colors just glow with some silk in the mix. Available in nearly all our brilliant Abstract Fiber colorways. Check it online or at our next show. Free shipping for orders over $100 at AbstractFiber.com


Luscious Lo-Lo bars have landed at Purlescence Yarns. What is a Lo-Lo Bar, you ask? Bar-Maids brings us these wonderful lotion bars, super moisturizing & great for popping into your knitting bag to keep your hands soft and smooth, especially great when knitting or spinning silk. You can even use it to scrunch in your hair for frizz-free shine. They come in wonderful scents like Red Clover Tea (our favorite), Blackberry Sage, Cool Citrus Basil, to name but a few. Plain Jane is scent free. Grab your Lo-Lo To Go!




STITCHES South offers something for everyone. This 4-day event brings thousands together in Atlanta, GA for workshops, demonstrations, author signings, and door prizes. It showcases beautiful yarn, books, gadgets, patterns, & buttons in a market full of retailers from across the country. If it has to do with knitting, you will find it here. STITCHES South is open to the general public April 23rd-25th. For more information please join us online at http://KnittingUniverse.com/Events/ or call 1-800-237-7099.

On the needles: (00:32)

Jasmin has finished the collar on her Mondo Cable Cardi. Gigi has finished a pair of Opal Vanilla Socks. Gigi has started the second sleeve of her Mondo Cable pulli. Jasmin has a (super) old UFO! Gigi is working on the Frost Flowers Stole by Charlene Schurch out of Colrain Lace. We attended CNCH, and discuss the vendors, the exhibitions, and Tien Chiu's incredible wedding outfit.

Events: (20:51)

- Maryland Sheep & Wool Festival: 5/1-2. Meet and greet will be happening on Saturday, 5/1 from 11-1pm. The meet and greet will be located at the Columbia Sip N Knit hospitality area (to the left of the main gate, outside the main gate).
- Spinning at the Retzlaff Winery: 6/5

Contest: (23:54)

The Project Runway inspired contest! Use your imagination, and post to the contest thread. We'll be closing the contest on 5/8, and announcing the winners in the 5/9 episode.

Mother knows best: (26:05)

We talk about keeping track of projects when your knittin' is intermittant.

When knitting attacks: (33:26)

Gigi is foiled by both knitting and spinning. Jasmin drops her carefully marked pattern (for the Brandywine Shawl) behind the sideboard and has to use her Hulk strength (and a broom) to retrieve it. Gigi is repeatedly attacked by her Frost Flowers stole.

Straw into Gold: (38:56)

Jasmin talked about plying the Polwarth from Crown Mountain Farms. She has started spinning some of the Abstract Fiber Superwash Merino in "Vineyard" for Andrew, and is surprised at how the colors present. Jasmin is nearly finished spinning the Cormo for her Tempest cardigan.

The Return of Tiger and The Hollywood Ending

The 2010 Masters could have turned out a lot of ways. Think back just one week, to last Sunday night... when it was anyone's guess.

The excitement was electrifying on the eve of Tiger's return as players arrived at Augusta National from around the world. Some speculated that the cloistered course and it's privileged patrons would be plagued by the Paparazzi, and that the beleaguered returning golf champion, would be harassed by heckling fans.

Then came the press conference. A terse confrontation was anticipated and had some scribes salivating, but in the end Tiger's detractors failed to ask the really tough questions.

In the days that followed, it became clear that the fans in Augusta were, for the most part, on Tiger's side, as were his fellow players. Overall, Mr. Woods was welcomed back warmly.

As the week progressed scandal and salaciousness took a back seat to brilliant golf and Tiger took his place on the fairways and greens. He appeared a bit rusty and did not seem particularly repentant. His golf was at turns dazzling... at turns disappointing. Ultimately, he did much better than many had predicted he would.

Lee Westwood, KJ Choi, Fred Couples and Anthony Kim each had role to play in Augusta and they each played their roles perfectly, but early on it became clear; there was only one sentimental favorite, and that was Phil Mickelson.

As the Masters got underway, Mr. Mickelson's chances didn't look good. His performance, thus far this year, had been fairly abysmal. So much so, that one reader wrote of his prospects, "He doesn't have a Snowball's Chance in Hell of Winning The Masters, he may as well not even show up."

But he did show up... and he brought with him many of those memorable Mickelson moments that produce the implausible, awesome outcomes. He also brought along his children... and his beautiful blonde wife Amy, currently undergoing cancer treatment.

And there's your classic Hollywood ending, improbable in its perfect, positive simplicity and heralding the return of one of the golf's most exciting rivalries.

The 2010 Masters tournament was as good as it gets.

Photos: Harry How, Andrew Redington/Getty Images North America

"I Hope Tiger Wins So They Can Kiss His Butt"

That was the sentiment expressed by one fan at Augusta National yesterday, as Tiger Woods battled through a tough third round.

It was a visceral reaction, on a moving day that featured a brilliant display of Mickelson magic and nearly relegated Mr. Woods to final round irrelevance.

The Woods-Mickelson dream rivalry of the past decade has not always lived up to expectations but it tends to shine through brilliantly at opportune times and yesterday was certainly one of those. As a result, a thrilling final round is expected today.

There are a number of other players in contention and they have several fascinating stories among them. For example Lee Westwood, seeking the breakthrough major that's eluded him for so long, is leading by one as the final round begins, and Fred Couples has a chance at becoming the oldest player to ever win the Masters (not to mention the only one to win without wearing socks).

There's been some brilliant golf on display and it's succeeded in mitigating the anticipated "circus atmosphere" to an extent some thought wouldn't be possible. Expect that to continue today as "great players continue to do great things."

However, the message that should be taken away regardless of who wins... is that the majority of golf fans... avid and casual... don't want to see Tiger Woods punished. Some, like the fan I quoted in the title of this post, actually see Tiger as a victim. They would see a Woods victory as a vindication. Most however, are simply pulling for their favorite player... be it Tiger or Phil or one of the other extraordinarily talented contenders... and looking forward to watching the best players in the world play spectacular golf on a beautiful Masters Sunday.

Photo:Jamie Squire/Getty North America

The Time Warner Cable 3D Masters Viewing Event

On Thursday afternoon, in a cloistered lounge at New York's bustling Time Warner Center, pimento cheese sandwiches were served to several dozen guests in dark glasses.











It was a taste of Augusta National in the middle of Manhattan, provided by Time Warner Cable. The event was held to allow guests to watch live coverage of the Masters in 3D, which... if one can't physically make it down to Augusta... is clearly the most exciting way to experience the tournament.

After a hectic day in the city, I arrived at the viewing party. I grabbed a glass of chardonnay and took a seat on one of the low slung leather sofas positioned in front of one of the sleek flat screens. The 3D glasses I had been given at the door were NOT those old cardboard things you used get back in the day. In fact, they were as sleek and stylized as the screens, and as soon as I put them on, the broadcast... literally... took on another dimension.

There was Camilo Villegas in a green side bunker, he took a full swing and lifted his ball onto the green with a spray of sand ...and that's all it took for me to see exactly how impressive this technology is.

The course looked beautiful... and quite a bit more challenging than it does in a normal broadcast because each contour is heightened in 3D. So the elevation changes, the slightest undulation on the greens...not to mention the undulations of Camilo's biceps... were ultra-perceptible.

Those sitting around me, some of them golfers some not, were all as impressed as I was. I met up with intrepid NY golf blogger Stephanie Wei of Wei Under Par and she heartily agreed that golf... with it's beautiful and varied venues... was a perfect sport for 3D.

Time Warner Cable subscribers with 3D TVs and a Time Warner Cable HD box with HDMI output can watch daily highlights in 3D on Demand. Relatively few have the technology in their homes at this point however, most feel that'll change soon. In the meantime if you're in New York on Sunday, Time Warner Cable is having a Masters viewing party that's open to the public. The event is free and seating is on a first-come, first-served basis. Similar events will be held in San Diego and Charlotte and additional details can be found at the Time Warner site.

The thing is, no matter where one watches the iconic tournament this weekend, a stellar leaderboard is probably going to make it pretty awesome. 3D just adds an extra dimension to the awesomeness.

The Awesome Tiger Nike Ad That Most Find Creepy

The Twitteratti has weighed in... with "creepy", "ultra-creepy", "shameless", shameful"... and quite a few less printable adjectives. Many golf bloggers are echoing these sentiments. ~

Personally however, I think the ad is awesome. That's not to say it isn't creepy... but who says awesome and creepy have to be mutually exclusive.

Because we now know quite a bit about Earl and Tiger Woods, their weaknesses and excesses as well as their strengths and talents, I think the 30 second spot can be seen as much more than an ad.

In the short clip I see a multi-generational narrative on the American dream ...about the heights that can be reached through single-minded determination and the fall that can be precipitated by human frailty. Ultimately, I see belief in the possibility of redemption. Call me naive but I'm a huge believer in redemption.

I know, I know... most others in the media see it as a crass, creepy Nike commercial... and in today's environment where cynicism sells and everyone's afraid of be taken for a fool... I should probably go along with that platform and find my own clever way to criticize the flawed golf icon and the over-dubbed voice of his deceased Dad. The thing is though, I rarely do what I "should" do.

...and I think the ad is awesome.

Not Afraid of Color, Ernie Els Dons Ishikawa Stripes

Intrepid photographer and PGA Golf Professional, Greg Moore is in Augusta this week and... as usual... he's captured some details others missed.

Ernie Els, is definitely on a roll going into the year's first major... but can he roll with Ryo Ishikawa? Style-wise, I mean?

The Big Easy, known for his decidedly dull sober khaki-and-white-shirt esthetic is playing with the kaleidoscopic wonder-kid tomorrow.

Well it looks like the South African is ready to give it his best shot. In a rare show of multi-chromatic bravado he matched Ryo stripe-for-stripe in practice rounds earlier this week.




















Oh, and as if that's not enough for you, their pairing also includes Anthony Kim, who'll most likely bring his characteristic bling into the fray as well. It should be a great pairing to watch... but you might want to bring your sunglasses.

The 2010 Masters Spectator Style Award

The young man at left captured the prestegious Masters Spectator Style Award in 2009 for his subtle but elegant color pallet and artful use of accessories.

Now we must find the 2010 champion. The standards are high and competition is bound to be fierce. The only requirement: The outfit must contain green and the Masters badge must be visible. That's it. ~ Other than that... cuteness is key, accessories are awesome and the more over-the-top the better.

After all, I've got a feeling it's going to be a tad bit difficult to stand out in Augusta this year.

Masters Traditions - My Pick is Sergio Garcia

It's a Masters Tradition for me, I always pick Sergio Garcia to win. And even after the... um... events, of last year, I'm upholding that tradition. So yeah, I'm for Sergio in 2010. And to that end, here's the 2010 version of my Sergio Garcia Masters Champion video.

Sergio Garcia - My Masters Tradition from patricia hannigan on Vimeo.

Golf Fans Have No Desire to Punish Tiger

A decidedly unscientific survey of 32 golf fans gathered yesterday afternoon at Zody's 19th Hole... the on-site restaurant and bar at Gaynor Brennan Golf Course in Stamford, CT... revealed something I'd suspected for a while: recreational golfers and golf fans, for the most part, will warmly welcome Tiger Woods back to the game of golf.

The golfers at Gaynor yesterday were predominantly male - there were only two females among them - but all-in-all they represented a fairly typical swath of the "American suburban recreational golfer" demographic. People who love the game but aren't obsessed (these folks probably don't belong to country clubs as they were playing at a town course - but they were playing on Easter Sunday).

Stamford is considered part of the "New York Metropolitan Area", consequently there was more diversity in this crowd then might find be found elsewhere; a number of races were represented and several spoke English as a second language. But their was little divergence in their thoughts on Tiger's return: "Can't wait!"... "He owes no explanation."... "So psyched that Tiger's coming back."... "Big Deal... He's human. Now let him play." and even "Tiger's da Man!" {said with the requisite sheepish grin}

Sensing the popular sentiment, my husband intern and I played devil's advocate, pleading the "deceptive, disingenuous Tiger" case as persuasively as possible. We suggested to the gathered golfers that "it was time for Tiger to come clean and answer reporter's questions." Our audience wasn't buying it.

"Tiger let a lot of people down, didn't he? we asked, "Don't you think he should be called out for that?"

"Well if people were dumb enough to put him on a pedestal that's their problem." responded one of the women. The rest of the crowd murmured in agreement.

One gallant golfer who appeared to be of Indian origin, shyly suggested that what Tiger did was disrespectful to women. That comment was quickly shot down in a series of half formulated responses that dismissed all the "ladies" in Tiger's life as fame-seekers, bimbos and self-serving gold-diggers, amongst other less polite pejoratives.

When asked about the possibility of hecklers at Augusta, again the golf fans bristled. "A heckler is a drunk without a date." One sunburned golfer declared, to a murmur of agreement.

So we headed for the door, satisfied that, from the fan side at least, Tiger Woods would probably be quite well received in Augusta. Outside was one of the golfers smoking a camel light and chatting on a cell phone. As we walked by he interrupted his conversation, flashed a familiar sheepish grin and got in the last (repetitive) words. "Tiger's da Man!"

Big and blingy - Episode 95 - The Knitmore Girls

Listen here:


This week's episode has been sponsored by:

All of us at Abstract Fiber are eager to start on our road trip to the Conference of Northern California Handweavers this week. After we fill up on In ‘n Out we’ll be in booth 416 at the Santa Clara Convention Center all weekend. We’re bringing decadent BFL/Silk in new colors including Rockstar, a vivid violet, turquoise and black, and Malefecint a super dark fiber with touches of red and purple. Polwarth will also debut in new colors along with some regular favorites. Come see us in booth 416 April 9-11.


Purlescence Purl Girl Sandi Luck's Spanish Dancer shawl pattern first appeared on Knitty.com. This week, we've released a new version of the pattern for sale on Ravelry which includes instructions for the color-blended version in Purl Up & Dye. Search for Spanish Dancer II or Sandi's name. Hardcopy versions will be available in the shop later this week. We have kits in Purl Up & Dye available, too!



STITCHES South offers something for everyone. This 4-day event brings thousands together in Atlanta, GA for workshops, demonstrations, author signings, and door prizes. It showcases beautiful yarn, books, gadgets, patterns, & buttons in a market full of retailers from across the country. If it has to do with knitting, you will find it here. STITCHES South is open to the general public April 23rd-25th. For more information please join us online at http://KnittingUniverse.com/Events/ or call 1-800-237-7099.

Show notes will be posted 4/5/2010.

Happy Easter - Happy Spring - Happy Golf Season

Just in time for Spring comes a cute little book about golf.

I know... there are some folks who still find it shocking to see "golf" and "cute" in the same sentence. And those individuals probably won't be big fans of this publication. But for everyone else Golf Girl's Little Tartan Book is now available at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Borders and many fine independent book stores.

More on the book later. For now I'm off to hunt for colored eggs and eat Peeps.

U.S. Open Challenge - What a Difference a Year Makes

It's becoming almost like a ritual of Spring: The unveiling of the "average golfer" finalists for the U.S. Open Challenge.

Tiger Woods was the unwitting instigator of the Challenge several years ago when he suggested that a 10-handicapper could not break 100 at Oakmont Country Club the way it had been set up for the 2007 U.S. Open.

That's when Golf Digest, the United States Golf Association and NBC Sports came up with the idea for the U.S. Open Challenge and each year since, there's been an essay contest to select the one "average golfer" who'll join three celebrities for a chance to taste of the thrill and pressure of playing a U.S. Open course under championship conditions. The challenge is filmed and broadcast nationally by NBC.










☝ That was then...
Just about 12 months ago the 2009 finalists were announced. And there was something quite remarkable about them: they were four different men ... but so stunningly similar to one another that they almost seemed to be the same person. And the person they seemed to be was a kind a composite of late 20th century American golfer stereotypes. Collectively they personified the Stepford Husband... middle-to-upper-middle-class, white, suburban, married, middle-aged, professional and male.

Though each of the men was, in fact, a distinct individual, and each... individually... made a good finalist, there was a general consensus (among my readers, at least) that out of 73,581 entries a slightly more multifarious foursome should have emerged. The fact that last years contest was based on a 6 word essay and video, made the results seem all the more subjective. I've got to admit, I didn't even vote because to my mind, there was just nothing big that set any of the four apart.

Flash-forward three hundred and something days. This year the contest involved an essay of up to 60 words, explaining how playing in the Golf Digest US Open Challenge would significantly change your life, why you felt you could handle the pressure and what you felt you would score.

This is now. ☟


Five finalist were recently chosen, and they're as diverse as last year's group was similar. Each has a unique and compelling story, presented in a video at the site. The winner will play Pebble Beach with Wayne Gretzky, Drew Brees and Mark Walberg, prodigious golfers each one.

I'm definitely going to vote this year, and you should too, after all each time you do you're entered in the companion sweepstakes with the chance to win your own trip to play at Pebble.

And I guarantee you, you won't have any trouble telling these finalist apart.