I noticed a trend in how I spend most of my weekends lately. As the weather stays warm and sunny, I want to spend my off days outside as much as I can. Choosing what to do is often the hardest part. The day started with walking my basset hound, Red; he has his own yard but enjoys walks around the neighborhood, as he gets to smell new things and meet new people along the way.

After coffee and breakfast, my boyfriend, Sawyer, and I decided it would be the perfect day for a round of golf.

As someone new to golf and still learning, I don’t keep score. I simply play and try to improve my swing and not hit the ball in the water. On this day we went to The Cove of Rotonda, in between Port Charlotte and Englewood and a beautiful, well-kept course. This is a great course for beginners as these are mostly short holes, making for a quick nine or 18.

We decided to start off with the driving range to get some practice swings in. The driver is my favorite. After a couple of buckets and lots of swings, we decided it was time to hit the course and play 18 to get some practice in. Even if my game isn’t going as well as I thought it would, I usually try to make up for it by driving the cart because that’s half the fun.

As someone who just started playing golf about a year ago, I have learned to appreciate the game of golf as well as respect those who are quite talented in the sport itself. I started golfing to have a new hobby that challenges me and, of course, play with Sawyer. But I also love the peacefulness of the courses, the fresh air and, yes, the cute golf outfits.

For me, it’s not about being the best on the course. It’s about having the chance to enjoy a beautiful day outside trying something new. Always keep an eye out for gators when you’re far enough south!

— Megan Gragg, account executive