A few weeks ago I made my bi-annual trek down to Toronto General Hospital for a check-up. As some of you know, I’ve had some problems in the past concerning my ticker’s willingness to tick. At times, it’s been known to ramp up to speeds usually seen only by well-honed Olympians.

It’s been a few years since my last “occurrence” and I’m happy to report that my doctor has given me two thumbs-up to travel. You’ll be seeing me once again across the country attending the various trade shows and industry events.

I stepped right into it when I asked him if I could play golf. He replied “I don’t know, could you play before?” followed up with a belly laugh usually reserved for a cheap TV comedy. This guy thought he was hilarious. “Ha, ha, ha, you’re killing me,” I replied. I suppose it was a poor choice of words judging by the look on his face. Anyway, I regress. His answer was ‘yes’ so I’m looking forward to picking my game up where I left it off – usually in the woods or out of bounds.

It never fails. I’ve just watched The Masters and all I can think about is getting back out there. I go through my usual wish list: A hole-in-one, an eagle, breaking 80, walking instead of carting (okay, that one was from my doctor’s list) and finally, buying new clubs. I believe that probably has been my problem all along. My clubs are no good (it can’t be my lack of talent.) Of course, I’m also looking forward to winning some of my hard-earned Truck West bucks back from a few certain individuals. In reality, I’m thinking my wish list will stay intact. A new towel will be the only upgrade my golf bag will see this year. My hole-in-one will remain a dream since it’s necessary to hit the green in order for the ball to go into the hole. The only eagle I’ll see will be soaring above the fifth fairway looking for dinner.

Walking the course will be the norm (unless it’s really hot, or cold, or wet, or, or, or…) Breaking 80 could be doable with the help of my foot wedge (relax, I’m kidding. I once heard a phrase “cheat on golf and you cheat on life.” I retired my foot wedge when I was a kid.)

My wish list isn’t really that important. What is, is finding time to enjoy things like golf. We all need time to regenerate our batteries, even in today’s tough market conditions.

– Rob Wilkins is the publisher of Truck West and he can be reached at 416-510-5123.