However, hitting half wedge shots was just frustrating! I kept hitting the shots fat. I thought that I have may have been too close, but that wasn't it...thought I might have been casting, but nope. What is with the half shot that would lead to this (beside first time being out)?-Rob

Hey Rob,
Haven't heard from you in awhile, how've you been?
Rob, if you're trying half shots with a wedge and hitting them fat, you are most likely deaccelerating through the ball. It's a common thing for most people to do when trying the hit a half wedge. Since it was your first round in awhile, it probably amplified the situation.
Solution:
Make sure you set up with your hands in front of the ball. Take the club back easy and when you start your downswing, make sure you accelerate through the ball. You do this by keeping your hands moving and keeping them in front of the clubhead through impact.