What is a "wisp"? By definition it's a small "tuft" or "lock" or something. It's that added descriptor applied to a slight instance of both tangible objects and non-tangible emotions or places. That tangible object could be a wisp of hair or slight wisp of wind. That non-tangible emotion could be a wisp of hope or that non-tangible place could be a slight glimpse of an ideal no one thinks exists but hopes might be true. A wisp of heaven comes to mind.

Recently we made a trip back to Wisp Resort in Western Maryland and finally understood what a wisp of heaven means. With the surrounding mountains, fall foliage and great golf course, Wisp Resort embodies a glimpse of what we only hope heaven might actually resemble.

In the Capital regions daily rat race of urban living we sometimes forget how close we are to escaping to a different world. The beauty of Western Maryland is home to "picturesque mountain views" where a commune with nature is a gratifying break that truly refreshes the soul.

Just outside of Cumberland Maryland nestled in the middle of Rocky Gap State Park is Lake Habeeb. This clear water lake attracts visitors year round with a plethora of activates for all those seeking an outdoor adventure. Rocky Gap Lodge and Golf Resort resides just on the banks of Lake Habeeb where all the luxuries of resort living perfectly compliments the beautiful natural surroundings.

One of my favorite parts of the NFL season is when the teams come out wearing those great "throwback" uniforms.

Who doesn't like seeing the old powder blue jerseys of the San Diego Chargers or the old Indian spear on the side of the helmet of the Washington Redskins? We all know it's a gimmick and done to increase apparel sales but seeing those old uniforms in high definition sure does make me reminiscent about an era of football long gone bye.

Well if you’re a fan of golf design and can appreciate a good "throwback" then I'd recommend playing a round at Patuxent Greens Country Club in Laurel Maryland. Built in the 1960s this course plays and reminds me of balata balls and hickory shafts.

One of those closings was Presidential Golf Club in Dulles Virginia last May. The $60,000 a year exclusive club was intended to offer corporate members a retreat from the boardroom. The vision entailed an outstanding course, impeccable practice facility and 16,000-square-foot clubhouse to entertain clients. But as the economy dipped from recession to near depression, the club couldn't attract enough members to stay afloat. So with less than six months open the club suddenly closed. This is just one example of the economic collateral damage sustained and impacting the golf industry but that's another story.

In golf, a course consists of eighteen holes with a division by two making up a "front" and "back" nine. With most courses this division bears no meaning or distinguishing difference between the two nines other than a convenient way to route golfers back to the clubhouse at the turn.

Well if you'd like to make the turn and play a round where each nine feels like two entirely different courses, then no course exemplifies this feeling better than the Lakes Course at Twin Lakes in Fairfax Virginia.

After writing a spotlight article on the Oaks Course last year we knew we had to return and check out the facilities other course. The Lakes Course is the original course of the 36-hole facility and first opened in 1967. The combination of both courses makes for a very diverse pair fitting for every level of golfing ability.