To be honest, I’m ambivalent about golf. My Dad taught me how to swing a club and I’ve played a round or two. But, I never was terribly interested in the sport. My boys adore the game. Bambino is an athletic kid and loves going to the driving range with his Dad. Occasionally, I tag along to take pictures and enjoy a long walk.

While planning our Boston/Cape Cod visit, I discovered that the Deutsche Bank Championship was being held nearby. Against my own personal interests, I suggested that we attend a day of the tournament. My boys happily agreed.

This was Bambino’s second golf tournament of the year. In May, we watched the Senior PGA Championship from a friend’s backyard.

Beforehand, we discussed golf etiquette and the importance of being quiet and respectful. Thankfully, he took his responsibilities as a fan seriously.

While I do not share my boys’ love of golf, I did appreciate how the DeutscheBank Championship handled its youngest fans. The event benefits the Tiger Woods Foundation (which focuses on education and child empowerment).  And, they encourage little ones to attend and enjoy the event.

At the driving range and multiple holes, there were “Kid Zones”– accessible only to children and their guardians. These zones allowed Bambino a front seat view of the course and practice venues. He even had a chance to greet Rory McIlroy (this year’s winner) and Jordan Speith.

Additionally, the clubhouse offered an autograph zone reserved for children. Many players spent a half hour or more signing autographs for their littlest fans. However, Bambino decided to forgo autographs and chose to play in the event’s Children’s Village at the end of our day. He worked on his  mini golf skills.

He enjoyed a bounce house.

And had a generally great time.

By mid-day, he was exhausted. We piled back in the car and headed back for one last night in Boston. It was a quiet evening that involved a decent hotel dinner, some local beers, and television. The next morning, Bimbo and I headed home. Il Marito boarded a plane to Berlin.

Our last few trips (Italy, Chicago, and Boston) ended with my family splitting up and traveling separately. Initially, I expected my little boy to be troubled by this change in our routine. He has adjusted beautifully. I asked him if it bothered him that his dad was going on another plane without us. His response: “He always comes home. Daddies need adventures too.”

We left for Boston and Cape Cod hoping that the trip would foster our child’s curiousity, mental flexibility, and sense of confidence. Some days, I feel like I’m bolluxing up this parenting thing. Then, Bambino reminds me that I’m doing okay.

Here’s to raising a rolling stone.