I slept good. I worked pretty hard the past few days. I'm not worn out. I just worked hard enough to sleep pretty well.

I rode in with my buddy, Chad Lytton. We played the Hooters Tour together. We played college golf together, too.

He lives in Orlando, (Fla.). I stayed with him for Bay Hill and Disney. He's just a good friend who came in last night.

Pat O'Brien, the other guy staying with me, my putting coach, rode in with Adam (Hayes, Vaughn's caddie). We drove in separately. I think that's the first time (O'Brien) has ever been down Magnolia Lane.

I left the house about 10 till 7. I got here about 5 after. I just went in and ate breakfast. I actually came out here a little early. I woke up 10 or 15 minutes earlier than I usually do.

I putted for a little while. I went over and hit a few bunker shots. I went to the range and started loosening up.

I started getting nervous on the range, getting close to my tee time. That's probably the first time that's ever happened. I don't know if I've ever been nervous on the range before.

It was tough. I really had to battle myself all day. I was proud of myself. I think I did a good job. I could've easily folded up and shot 5- or 6-over.

I was definitely nervous on the first tee. I felt pretty good up until the time they called my name.

When you feel that way, you really have to talk to yourself. The feelings we feel on the golf course day to day, I don't think some people feel those their entire life. It's tough, because you really have to mentally grind it out. You have to talk to yourself and think positively. And that's what I did. I was nervous, but I was thinking "I'm hitting this thing right down the middle."

I think (Adam) had a good time. We didn't speak a whole lot. I usually don't. He did a great job. He read putts really well. I think we're right on the same page.

I'm going to get something to eat and have a little light practice. I'll probably hit the gym for a little while. Blow off some steam.

I won't purposely sit home and analyze my round. I'm sure I'll think about it. I'm trying to learn from my mistakes. I feel better. (Thursday) was probably the most nerve-racking round I'm going to have.

(Today) I think I'll be more comfortable. Hopefully, I'll pick up where I left off and hit some good shots and maybe make a few putts, too.

About the series

EDITOR'S NOTE: Masters Tournament rookie Vaughn Taylor, who will be the first Augusta resident to compete at the tournament in 50 years, is compiling a diary of his experiences in the 70th Masters. The 30-year-old, who has lived in Augusta since he was 6 months old, is a two-time winner on the PGA Tour. Taylor qualified for the Masters by finishing in the top 40 on the 2005 PGA Tour money list. He is sharing his thoughts with Staff Writer David Westin.

Saturday: Making it back is the next challenge
Friday: Course, nerves win battle
Thursday: Reality of tournament is beginning to sink in
Wednesday: Nerves have settled since a 'strange' opening drive
Tuesday: Practice with DiMarco offers lesson on course
Monday: With swing back, excitement builds over Masters debut