Deep thoughts, Masters edition

A tradition unlike any other:Sandwich, beverage and decked out from head to toe in Rickie Fowler orange.That, my friends, is truly a tradition unlike any other.But seriously:From Augusta National#146;s eye-popping beauty to its respectful galleries to the impressive list of past champions to the intrigue of who might join them this year, the Masters truly is a tradition unlike any other.And I, for one, can#146;t wait.Plus:We actually get to see what spring might look like one day.Not a misprint:It#146;s been eight years since Tiger#146;s last Masters victory.Eight. Years.But if you believe all the experts, the streak will not reach nine.Question:How great was it to see Palmer, Nicklaus and Player making their way around Augusta during Wednesday#146;s Par-3 tournament?I#146;ll answer that: super great.Soak it in while you can.What you don#146;t want to hear from your favorite player:#147;I#146;m starting to feel a little bit more comfortable here, but there#146;s still a few things I haven#146;t figured out ... you know, feeling a little overwhelmed about this place at times. There#146;s been some issues, not only physically, but I think mentally here, as well.#148;#151; Steve StrickerAll about the drive:The road leading up to Augusta National reminds me of Rand Road, circa 1981 #151; sans the Waffle Houses.Dreaming of Sunday:I know everyone wants it to be the Tiger, Rory and Phil Show on the back nine Sunday, and maybe it will be, but personally I#146;m thinking there will be a Justin and a Brandt added to the mix.And while we#146;re at it, why not a Donald, a Points, a Streelman and a Wilson for some nice local flavor?Either way, one final word:Enjoy!mspellman@dailyherald.com