The Gamble

My wagers on the Breeder’s Cup did not bring me any windfall. I won back about two-thirds of my investment. However playing the slots on Misao’s birthday, dropping some more coin in the one armed bandit on a Thursday “Spin it to Win It” promotion, and throwing some more at the machine while I was waiting for an Omaha Hi/Lo table Tuesday all paid off pretty well. The returns more than covered my losses at the OTB by far.

More poker play has not paid off recently. Two attempts at satellite tournaments failed. A seat at some limit games, Texas Hold’em and Omaha Hi/Lo, ran me dry. Resources are available, but I tread cautiously when in the red overall. No more shooting for the tournament this time.

I had spent the entire day Tuesday at the casino just to see how I would fare. I got tired at times (well I had not slept much the night before) but generally was no worse for wear. Rather than crash in front of the TV when I got home, as I am often mentally spent, I focused on getting my daily disciplines completed before it became too late; prayer and study. I came upon a restful sleep much earlier than usual, after spending any significant time at the tables.

I played much of the time, when not in the tournament, beside a man struggle with some ills. At the Omaha Hi/Lo table his stack just grew larger and larger. He just could not lose. It was a peaceful serene experience that all seemed to share. A testament to the world after and God’s love for a man that I had to believed has been a really good guy in his life. I felt fortunate to be there.

A lot of poker is about people. I have no interest in Internet poker any longer. Yes, to get to that 10,000 hour mark some say is required to become expert at anything, it is very useful. But unless you’re a heartless computer head I don’t understand how anyone enjoys it. Internet poker may have a place in satellite qualifiers for your highest level tournaments, in which travel may be a serious expense for some. Otherwise I believe it is a dangerous activity in regards to one’s social development. I have enough problems staying away from Facebook.

I have to conclude that my best play, when I am inspired to play again, would begin from mid-morning and run three to five hours. If I have visions of winning entry into a major tournament again, I should begin from the first satellites, a month or more before the main event, and not try to make a desperate run in the final week.

More soon.

Back in the Game

Distractions kept me from playing poker all Summer, but with a new found focus and determination I hit the poker table with a clear mind. I more than tripled my investment. I am looking to make a late attempt to win an entry to the latest Mid-States Poker Tournament at the Potawatomi Casino in Milwaukee.

Besides, the days are growing shorter. It is time for indoor activities.

My wife actually has more confidence in me bring home the dollars playing poker than she does in me making money as an author. Life is strange.

Make a run as a professional poker player? When I talk about making a run I mean hitting the tables once a week; perhaps more when pursuing tournaments. The future looks hopeful.

Thanksgiving is coming and my wife mentioned to her employer that we may go to the casino for Thanksgiving if nothing coalesces with family, as all are under various pressures. Her employer ran the idea by her husband who responded; “That’s a good idea. The first Thanksgiving was with the Indians.” And they have prepared a special menu for their buffet and their restaurants.

I have a warning to post. I may very well make some Breeder’s Cup wagers based on Mark Belling’s picks this weekend. If you are a frequent reader of my blog, you know what I am talking about.