Times changing for the better for expectant father Woods

CHARLOTTE, North Carolina (Reuters) - Tiger Woods has much to smile about when he tees off in Thursday's opening round at the Wachovia Championship exactly one year after the death of his beloved father Earl.

The American world number one's life has changed dramatically since he mourned the loss of his mentor and best friend.

He celebrated a golden season in 2006 with 11 titles worldwide, including major victories at the British Open and the PGA Championship, and his wife Elin is expected to give birth in two months.

"I was in a totally different state of mind obviously this year versus last year," Woods told reporters at Quail Hollow Club on Wednesday.

"This time last year was not a fun period in my life but now, a year later, here I am looking forward to becoming a father. Times have changed."

Woods, who married Swede Elin Nordegren in October 2004, has frequently spoken about becoming a father. His wife is due to give birth in early July.

"It's pretty exciting, actually," the 31-year-old added. "Now I'm starting to realize that it's basically a couple months away. Time will really start flying and all of a sudden you'll ask, what happened."

AILING FATHER

The 12-times major champion skipped last year's Wachovia Championship to spend time with his ailing father, who had been fighting prostate cancer since 1998.

Earl's lengthy battle finally ended on May 3, one day before the opening round at Quail Hollow.

"There are times when I thoroughly miss my dad," said his son, who is back in PGA Tour action for the first time since tying for second at last month's Masters.

"I just wish I could talk to him, hear his voice and ask him for advice on certain things.

"Basically he was my best friend. Not only did I lose my father but my best friend."

Tiger, who was introduced to golf as a young child by Earl, has often attributed his mental strength in tournaments to his former Green Beret father.

"My dad was in the special forces, so he was tough," Tiger said towards the end of last year.

"He taught me how to be tough on the golf course and how to focus. His life depended on it. That's where my mental approach comes from."

(Writing by Mark Lamport-Stokes in Los Angeles)