Ms All-In

wbcoop

2011-01-27T21:50:00.001-05:00

I have registered to play in the PokerStars World Blogger Championship of Online Poker! The WBCOOP is a free online Poker tournament open to all Bloggers, so register on WBCOOP to play.

Registration code: XXXXXX 796190

Reconnection

2010-04-25T16:42:00.003-05:00

I have been gone for a very long time. I'm not sure why. Perhaps I let other things occupy my time perhaps just not wanting to make the effort. I miss writing. I don't write about anything profound but I find it therapeutic. So read if you like....otherwise it'll just be my online expression.

So many things have happened in my life the past couple of years...some good some bad but mostly I'm grateful for some very special connections in my life. Without my peeps....life wouldn't be as fun or interesting or special. The first connection in my life is my hubby...He is my best friend. Although he may not want me to publish this ...(too bad)..he has such a tender soul. He is kind and generous to others. God blessed him with the ability to forgive....more easily than I can. I admire his conviction and his work ethic. We aren't millionaires but we aren't poor either. He strives to obtain all he can to provide a great life for us but not at the expense of others. Most people in this world do not consider others before thinking of themselves first but he is an exception. Although our personalities are very different in many ways...it works well for us. Second important connection / blessing is my girls. I pray God will guide me to mold them in a positive and loving way. They are my legacy and mark on the world. It is important to me to do a great job in providing them with a sense of self worth they can be proud of. My girls are loving, expressive, full of life, and bring me and others a lot of joy. Third connection in my life is my family and friends. My mother and father are always available to listen to me. They want to hear my joys and my concerns. They make time for me even when it is inconvenient to them. I notice as they grow older and the economy takes its toll on them that they still try to find small ways to connect. I'm so proud of the way they raised me and the value system they taught me. I can also give them credit for my outgoing personality. Yes, I'll admit I'm a little in your face at times but definitely genuine and my heart is in the right place. That may be the "Yankee" in me...who knows?! My dearest friends know who they are. They are the ones I call to share a happy moment or when I need a shoulder to cry on. They are a support and love in my life. They are few in number but bountiful in all areas that matter. Ironically the most important connection in my life I saved for last and one that I have been neglecting.... My relationship with God has been stagnent so I have decided to do something about it. I am rebuilding something I find comfort and joy in....like an old project that needs to be finished... I'm not proud that I have neglected my connection with God but very happy He is so forgiving and non-judgemental. He is a friend for life that won't ever get upset with me...even when I don't return his call, e-mail, text, facebook, or skype. It is a connection I want to rebuild.

Do you want to reconnect with someone in your life? It may not be as profound as mine but reconnection is important and can start in small ways. True friends and loving family will welcome a reconnection with an open heart. The world today is so concerned with money and obtaining things... that it becomes so easy to forget it still takes people to make money and things happen. The connection gets lost. Where are the simple days of chillin' out, picnics, or genuinely asking how someone is doing because you really want to know and not because it is something to say.

Next time you ask "how is it going?" take just a moment to think.......are you just asking to be polite or are you truly interested in finding out about their life. Try taking a moment to ask that same question to someone you really want to know about....how long did the conversation last? ... Did you ask any more questions or share anything about yourself?

Getting to know someone and connecting on a deeper level is so much more rewarding. And they get to know more about you too.....it's one of life's greatest joys.

Guess What?!

2008-12-17T22:12:00.000-05:00

I have registered to play in the PokerStars World Blogger Championship of Online Poker!

The WBCOOP is an online Poker tournament open to all Bloggers.

Registration code:
document.write(paramCode)
313421

Goddesses Rule

2008-09-07T11:15:00.002-05:00

OK so I am a quarterly blogger now . I am not sure how it happened but it has. I have put more effort into things around me and this blog has suffered....which not too many people loose anything over. I started this blog 3 years ago as a method of therapy. Guess I need it more times than others.

I have to admit at times I wish I had a typical 9-5 kind of job. A place where I was like everyone else and could blend in the crowd when I wanted to ....goof off on the job or at least put minimal effort into what I needed to get done. To my surprise for the past 9 years I have loved being a domestic goddess. (like that better than stay at home mom, since i am hardly ever at home). I wasn't so sure I'd like this domestic goddess thing when I first started out. I mean when you graduate high school and college, it is all about what a person does for a living that seems to establish a persons worth to the outside world. Think about how many times you meet someone and they ask you what you do for a living? That is a loaded question and how you respond can be crucial to the first impression you give a person. It is what it is....we judge others based on their jobs, at least at first. So for the longest time I mumbled stay at home mom, not because I didn't like to position but because where I grew up staying at home and not having a career meant you were inadequate in some way or some kind of loser. What I have come to realize, which I knew all along, is that those people are way off. My mind is stimulated in some many different areas and ways that a typical 9-5 job couldn't come close to touching. I deal with all kinds of crap on any giving day. I wake up not knowing what my job is going to hand me and yet I get it done. All domestic goddesses do.....we live in the moment....sure we can plan for things but those plans change by the hour. I have been able to focus on my family, work when I want to, and enjoy the luxuries that life has to offer. Isn't that what life is about. Who made up the rule that "we" get soft by working at home instead of punching a normal time clock. I have gone on more vacations and getaway then I ever could have had I had a boss to answer to. All this retrospective therapy helps me to realize one thing as my birthday draws near (next weekend). Thank you to my old boss at LPT. Thank you for laying me off 1 week after my honeymoon. You gave me the best present ever, my life back. I am young, healthy, attractive (if i say so myself), and damn happy with the where my life is and the outlook for the future. I wouldn't trade one thing because if I did I doubt I'd be where I am today or have the wonderful family I do. Thank you to the wonderful man I married. We have so much fun together. Marrying my best friend was the smartest thing I ever did. You keep me young and sexy....I love you. Thank you for the best birthday present ever.....You Rock, babe!

To all my friends and family - Thanks for being there for me when I need you, and for being a part of my life. You all have a special place in my life.

OK...done with all the sappy stuff....my birthday does that to me!

What is going on?

2008-06-20T10:49:00.003-05:00

For the past 6 months, I thought why bother. So much has gone on and continues to explode for me that there isn't enough time in my day to blog about anything. The poker playing has been void for some time. Not because I don't want to but due to time restrictions. By the time I get most things done it is 10pm before I get to sit down on any given day.

Instead of taking a trip down memory lane for the past six months I will pick up with a more recent activity. Last weekend was Father's Day, we made a trip to my brother-in-law's lake, got a hotel room, and had a blast. The girls love going to a hotel....I am not sure why children find it so alluring to sleep in a bed thousands have slept before them but they do.

A few highlights:

My youngest princess slide off a slide into the cool lake water, rode the jet ski at 68 mph, and jumped off the side of a second story house boat without any fear......I think if memory is correct her words were: Let's do it again.....come on mom..you try it...... something like that.
The older princess could not be bribed to do any of that. She was happy just swimming and floating.
A storm came by for only about 20 minutes....enough to wash off the boat and cool things down. Felt great.
Hallmark made thousands in revenue from all the cards we purchased.
TheMark donated a bracelet to the lake gods.....treasure diving anyone.
Jax, our family malti-poo, had an accident on a large flotation devices...not funny
Waking up Sunday morning to make "Daddy" breakfast in bed, (sausage biscuit from continental breakfast bar), and opening several presents.
Enjoyed the best blended drinks, ever....favorites were the Mojito and Strawberry-banana....thanks Scott, you need to tell us your secret...
Spending time with family and some friends is always the best for me. It is in these moments that memories are made and we truly can get to love and appreciate each other.

Good Times...........Good Times

Christmas Cheer

2007-12-26T09:16:00.000-05:00

For the past couple of months life has been on fast forward. There have been more family obligations, and more child activities than I can ever remember. This explains why Christmas Eve I fell ill to a horrible, hideous, migraine. I have had to plan each day for just about a month to get all my responsibilities complete. This my be routine behavior for some but one of the rewards of working from my home is a flexible schedule, one that I haven't seen since summer. Anyway, Christmas Eve Day started great. The Mark took the princesses out for a few hours so I could gather presents and clean up for Santa. I rushed around and completed most of what I needed to but in the process forgot to eat anything. Bad Move. I knew the instant my headache began. I immediately made a hamburger and took about 4 aspirin. I knew that would take care of it. By the time I was ready to leave for church service, I had a full blown migraine. The Mark was already waiting for us to meet him at the church so there wasn't any going back now. I popped a prescription pill from my doctor for my migraines and thought I would be good very soon. That unfortunately didn't work either. It wasn't until after we had stopped to eat at Outback and I ate one of the most awesome steaks, ever (I usually don't say that about Outback), that my migraine had finally subsided to a mere headache. I needed that. How would I have ever made it through the night with a migraine. Once home and princesses in bed, I began wrapping and wrapping and wrapping, until 3AM. Then The Mark came out and set some things up for us. This is our routine. It happens every year. No matter how much I try to plan otherwise or prepare myself it doesn't change. When the older princess woke Christmas morning (8am), it was all worth it. Like every child her face lit with joy over all the presents she saw under the tree. She came running to wake us up and a blizzard of tissue paper, boxes, and wrapping paper fell from the sky. What a sight.

Christmas is a glorious time of year. It is so magical. It is also a time when I am most grateful for the wonderful things I have been blessed with. I have been blessed with an amazing husband, delightful children, caring family and friends, all of whom I couldn't my life being the same without them in it. You all are gifted people whom i will always treasure for having know you.

OK Enough of the sentimental stuff. The New Years Bash is still on call The Mark or myself for more details..... We would love to have ALL of friends and family with us.

Come one Come All

2007-12-16T20:31:00.001-05:00

This has become a monthly blog for me. Thank you to my loyal and extremely patient readers.

We are throwing a New Year's Eve Bash. We want to spend this night with our family and friends. We are renting a place, having food, entertainment, and guarantee a fun time for all that can come. Get in touch with me for more details.

hope to see you there.

Prayers

2007-11-16T10:08:00.000-05:00

I am back and had a blast. More to come on the Nashville trip but first I need to ask my fellow readers to please pray for a very close family friend of mine.

I haven't talked to much about my faith on this blog. Not because I don't have any but because this is mostly used for random facts that don't have much meaning but today is different.

A person I grew up with, my parents best friend, someone I consider an uncle, has been fighting prostate cancer with some success, until recently. He went to the hospital for a standard MRI to determine how the treatment had been going. After returning home from the MRI, his legs felt numb and he decided to return to the hospital to have it checked out. Once he did, the doctors gave him some very disappointing news. The cancer has spread to his spine. In addition to prostate cancer, he now has two additional tumors. One located in the front of his spine and the other behind the spine. This has paralyzed him from the waist down with the exception slight movement in his toes. The doctors are not confident a surgery can be done at this time considering the placement of the tumors. If they decide to operate there is a strong chance the cancer with spread. Something with the oxygen after hitting the open wound/tumor, magnifies they chance of further spreading throughout his body.

I am asking you to please pray for him, his wonderful wife, his three grown children, and for his amazing grandchildren. They are kind and generous people that are in need of the Lord's hand.
There may be some of you that are not of a faithful nature and I ask you to please use my faith and read this pray out loud:

Lord, please place your healing hands on this precious man. Remove the horrible toxins from his body and restore him to a condition so he will be able to live, love, and engage with the family and friends that love him so much. Give him the strength to endure the fight that lies ahead of him and extend the same to his family. Amen.

I want to thank you for reading this today. Please revisit as many times as you can. My uncle and his family are in need of your support and prayer.

Thank you for your time and prayers.

Out of Town

2007-11-09T18:48:00.001-05:00

I am so excited. I will be traveling to Nashville to see my favorite football team, Titans, play
J-ville. I have a sister that lives there and she has two tickets that are on the 30 yard line and the tenth row. SWEET!

I have been a Titans fan since its conception and before that an Oiler fan. The sad part is I don't get the chance to go to a lot of games so when this opportunity came up I was there.

I will add more after arriving home Monday night...

til then.

What's Happenin'

2007-10-10T14:19:00.000-05:00

So, I was feeling a bit guilty for neglecting my blog but as I can see I am not the only one that has had other things to tend too. Even the journalistic friends who post almost every day have been busy. I feel less guilty about it now for some reason.

For the past month, wow, it has been that long...crazy, I jumped into PTA at the school and keeping up with the rug rats at home. Not glamorous but hey we all can't live like a rock star all the time.

Being involved with my rug rats while they will still let me is a big deal to me. Although I hate being seen as the "soccer mom" / "house wife" image, no offense to the minivan drivin' soccer moms....(i have several awesome friends that can stake a claim there) but I feel too young to be labeled as anything to be very honest with you. Back to topic, I have volunteered for several committees on the PTA, one of which was fun but very exhausting. Some may say why? I thought it was to help the school and partly to fill my day (good excuse not to clean the house) but mostly it is to see her face when she sees me involved at school. Her face lights up each time I visit her for lunch or pop in at recess. I know the days are approaching very soon when it will no longer be "cool" or accepted for me to pop in nor will she run and give me a hug. So, that is why I run around some weeks like a chicken with my head cut off so I can see how proud she is to have me there with her. That is one of many pleasures of being at home with them and not working outside of the home. You parents are diggin' what I am sayin'.

Last weekend we had a gathering of friends where some cards were flown around. I had a good time keeping up after it all. Some of us now have a "not-so secret" phrase that is said to grab another's attention when necessary (use with caution)...you know who you are and what I mean. Last person left around 4 AM. TheMark was contributing to the "liquid diet" and converting anyone in sight. Some jumped on the train and most sat back and enjoyed the entertainment. I have become accustom to being the only female in the room but was excited to see I wasn't alone that night. Don't get me wrong.... I enjoy male company...had more guy friends than girlfriends growing up....but everyone likes a little change every now and again. To protect the innocent and the guilty I will refer to her as "Drunky". I am not insulting her by any means. She is a mother as well and was out to have a good time. I know the feeling ....we all do. Sometimes we all need a release. It was funny to experience "Drunky" in this way. It was kinda cool to see some one talk more than me and you could tell she was a person who spoke her mind. And she did. At one point in the evening she asked me: "Why aren't you wearing your wedding ring?" I wasn't sure what to say. I was wearing a ring that looked very much like a wedding band but happened not to be my wedding band. (when I am home I sometimes take it off, cleaning, dishes, etc...not comfortable) I replied with something, don't really remember what, but at that moment I knew that she would never take hers off. You can really learn alot about a person when they have had a bit too much to drink....it is like a truth serum. There were other things said, not really a big deal but very informative. It got me thinking. Everyone in the poker world knows that when "The Master" plays, he drinks. Hell, he probably drinks all the time when he isn't playing, who knows. Regardless... how much info. does he give away by doing so? I know when I have a few cocktails I am happier and feel a sense of release from stresses so am I easier to read? Do I concentrate less? (yes) can I read others? (probably not) So, why would I want to mix the two? (cause it is fun) I know I couldn't be profitable without being consistently lucky playing under the influence so how can other people? Perhaps they are just that lucky, or they aren't really that intoxicated, or they are only that good when they are intoxicated....who knows...perhaps it just a cosmic way for the card gods to keep us all in check. As long as it is good old fashion entertainment what more can we ask for.

Better stop for now and do something....otherwise it will never get done.

Blogger Tourney at PS

2007-10-03T16:01:00.000-05:00

I have registered to play in the PokerStars World Blogger Championship of Online Poker!

This Online Poker Tournament is a No Limit Texas Holdem event exclusive to Bloggers.

Registration code: 3756037

Today is the day!

2007-09-13T14:01:00.000-05:00

Why is it that a large majority of people don't like being reminded of the day they were born. I mean, it is really that bad. For the past few years I have thought pretty negatively about my birthday and I am not really sure why. I don't have much to complain about, sure I can always find something but overall life is good. So what's the big deal about getting older. I have realized that there isn't one. In the past couple of months I have been carded several times and most people don't think I look my age. It was starting to irritate me but then I realized that even though I may not get the respect initially, people who get to know me realize that there is a brain between my ears. So, lighten up about the age thing ....it's just a number. Besides, the most important thing is how I feel and what I do about it not what anyone else thinks about me. From now on am going to look forward to celebrating my birthday. What is so wrong with having one day a year being all about yourself. Everyone deserves at least that much.

My New Law #1: On your birthday you should be praised by those who know you and be able to do whatever you want to do for that day.

I plan to do just that. I want to have cake with my rug rats, eat dinner w/ the hubby, play some cards, have an after dinner beverage, and seal the evening with some adult lovin'. That sounds just about right.

Gotta go get ready for the night. chow....

Lost

2007-08-30T07:26:00.000-05:00

Ya, I have been lost. Lost in my own world. There has been so many things that have been filling my days that a recap would take too much time and be rather boring soooooo no recap.
My dad is recovering nicely from his gall bladder surgery. He will be under the knife again once recovered from this. It doesn't seem to end but we are oping this will be it for awhile. The oldest rug rat started school and is adjusting. She isn't too sure about her teacher.....but I think she will be fine. The youngest starts up next week. Then I will have my days back again. I have slacked off on going to the gym. I was going strong when I had someone to meet me or make me accountable. I will give myself the holiday weekend off and start back up after that. I really enjoy going and more importantly how great I feel after I leave. I have more energy. It's great. So between PTA, running the rug rats, chasing The Mark, and fitting in a little time for myself, there isn't too much time left. I read about a G-Vegas game that got robbed. That crap is just crazy. To be honest, I didn't think it would have happened. I know the threat is there but here. I can't imagine what those people, some of them friends, were going through. I think I would have crapped my pants or just froze. They would have told me to do something and I would have been like a babbling idiot and not been able to do anything. Then they would have shot my ass. Crazy people.

In mid Oct. we are planning to go camping with some friends in NC. I am looking forward to that. It was our first year last year and we had a ball. I have already bought a few surprises for the group to enjoy. The rug rats have a great time running around and once they are asleep in the tent, we get to enjoy some alone time. It really is a nice time. Anyone interested in going, let me know i will get you the info.

Not sure what we have planned for the holiday weekend coming up but I hope it doesn't involve too much. looking forward to some down time. Especially, since the old birthday is creeping it's ugly head. I only have a couple of weeks before it hits me in the face...ugg

have a great labor day.....labor free!

Summer Lovin' its Happening so Fast

2007-07-31T06:39:00.000-05:00

Another month has gone by since posting and I can't believe how the time flew. This summer has been rockin'. We have been busy visiting TheDepot and having a blast with that. The youngest rugrat turned 4 last week and we had a party for her that included ice cream cupcakes and a face painter. All her friends were very pleased with getting full facial paintings. I am posting today from my sister's house in Jersey. Up here on vaca with my family. My dad recently underwent gall bladder surgery. He also has to have two aneurysms taken out in a few weeks after he heals from this surgery. On a lighter note, he is home and we are happy. It has been fun so far. On our drive up here went went through Gettysburg, PA & Hershey for some chocolate...mmmm love their chocolate. We are heading to A.C. today. I will watch over the rugrats while TheMark gets some poker in. My nephew might come along and babysit in the room so I can get out for a bit. Perhaps poker or perhaps a little drinky at the bar. Either way I am happy. Later in the week we are hitting my sister's comedy club. Anyone interested in joining us....go to ... www.knuckleheadstomsriver.com . We will be going to the Friday show, would love to see you there.

Anyway, gotta run. heading to the gym and to the nail lady for a pedi before hitting the beach.....see ya back in G-Vegas next week.

Happy Birthday, America!

2007-07-05T10:17:00.000-05:00

The honor of celebrating America's birthday fell into our lap six years ago. The Mark's parents always threw the party before that but one year for some reason we threw it and have kept it going ever since. We enjoy gathering with our friends for any reason so why not on the 4th of July. Pretty soon I will have to have T-shirts made up for attendees to wear. (Note to self: great idea for next year....t-shirts as the invitation)

Unfortunately I have plunged into summer mode and temporarily fired the housekeeper. She was doing such a great job and then summer hit and she just slacked off. So, a week before our bash, I rehired her to get things organized. (housekeeper = me) I started with organizing my front office / living area. We have never really had a purpose for this room due to the long narrow dimensions so it has but the catch all room. I have always hated that since it is the first room you see when walking into the house. About 4 years ago, I asked TheMark to build me a Wall Bed. After completion we flanked it with a pair of bookcases and this is where our "out of town guest" (aka my family) would sleep when visiting. It has served its purpose and now it was time to give my front room some life. So, out went the wall bed (gave to the in-laws for their guest room) and out went the book cases that clashed with my wall color and in came a new room design. My desk was moved to a more appropriate spot dividing the room in half but offering more space. I love it. It was difficult for me to arrive at my decision due to the enormous amount of stuff I had jammed on the bookcases. It is amazing how much stuff we have accumulated in the short time we have lived here. I was able to find temporary homes for most of the items. I went through the rest of the house in a similar fashion. Perhaps there is a small audience that can appreciate the effort and determination it takes to sift through treasures and weed out things that aren't used, broken, old, new, misplaced, etc. With most tasks, I am eager in the beginning but find myself burning out towards the end. Frankly, work isn't fun. So I tend to lose momentum. A party is always a great way to kick my butt in high gear. Although, I am not finished. I would like to move the love seat in my office area and purchase a large ottoman to use as a coffee table or even use our existing coffee table. Then in the keeping room, which is used as our living room, purchase a oversize club chair. I have seen one that is round that swivels, and rocks...pretty cool. That is the idea anyway. We will see how it comes together.

Enough about my interior designing and housekeeping abilities. TheMark and I also celebrated our 8th year of martial bliss. As usual, we were to busy planning and working to celebrate the night of but after the first couple of years it really didn't matter whether we celebrated the night of or within the week. Of course, we exchanged sappy and funny little cards with each other but to be honest my anniversary doesn't usually feel any different than any other day. I mean it isn't as if we were renewing vows with a ceremony or anything. Don't get me wrong we have been able to celebrate by doing some amazing things. One year we went to a spa for the weekend, another year we celebrated late and went to Maui, even went to Vegas for our 5th but all that isn't necessary for me. The most wonderful thing about my marriage is that on any given day I remember the love and joy we share together. So, why just spend one day a year celebrating / remembering it together. I celebrate it each time we go out to eat together, each time we hold hands walking downtown, watching silly home video's of our vacations, looking at pictures from various activities, or lying in bed and watching rented movies. For me it is the time that I have with the people I love that strengthens the bond we have. I am very lucky to have married my best friend and a wonderfully generous man who has given me so many happy memories that I look forward to creating new ones every day. (I am a chick of course I had to throw some sappy junk in there)

Thought of the day: do something nice for someone today. just a simple phone call to say hey can really brighten some one's day.

What the hell is up?

2007-06-24T09:18:00.000-05:00

So, life has been busy as usual. I have been consistent with my workouts and feel as if I am at a point that I can actually workout with someone. Some of my goals are to bench my weight or get real close, definition in my legs and arms, lift the buttocks, and killer abs. I have reached a starting point where my body realizes something is about to change. I am hoping it will respond well.

So what has been up on my side of the fence? Well.......... My parents recently went through some surgeries that were risky but successful. I am thankful for that. Now, Dad has a pace maker, some new stints, and other things that are being monitored. Mom's surgery was routine and successful but the word "cancer" always scares me. But all is well.

GucciRick celebrated another birthday in style. We went to his house for an intimate party that led to singing on an awesome karaoke system. I really felt for everyone when I started singing. I think the Heart duet with my sister-in-law and GucciRick's Purple Rain were the best. I had a great time. So good in fact, the entire bottle of wine was gone before I left. oops. Then off to play some cards. I continued to swallow down a few jager bombs with my favorite dealer and a couple of heart palpitations on my own before calling it a night. Oh, what a night! Good stuff.

The following week brought Father's Day and a goodbye I thought I was OK to make. TheMark and GucciRick were off to Vegas for the WSOP. After dropping Sweetness off at the airport, I felt pretty good about being a single parent for the week. I had lined up activities for my little ladies and planned some time for myself as well. During the day we went to the pool with the mini bloods and had a great time being lazy. In the evening, the little ladies went to VBS. I had a couple of hours each night to shop, eat, whatever. It was cool until I hit "hump day". Wednesday night hit me hard. I really missed Sweetness and hadn't felt this way in a long time if ever. I am used to him working and hitting some cards afterwards but I always wake up with him next to me. It is weird. I miss his physical presence. As independent as I am, I know I can handle most things that come my way, but I enjoy a man, My Man, around the house. He gives me a sense of security and love that I just can't live without. It is great to have his arms around me to feel the love in every hug. I am so thankful he doesn't have a job to that travels a lot because after this past week I couldn't handle that very well. I am still waiting for my Sweetness to come home. His return flight has been cancelled twice. He is stuck in DC at the moment waiting to board a flight to ATL to connect again to GSP. When he finally makes it here. I ain't letting go. So, no calling the house or cell we won't answer.....lol

Have a good one.

Workout

2007-06-08T19:18:00.000-05:00

So the new workout system is working my ash hard. I am not pumping major iron by any means but take into consideration I haven't stepped into a gym in 15 years. I am glad I have a PT to push me harder than I'd push myself and more importantly to show me the "right" way of doing things so that I am not wasting my time but it is still hard work. I am going to soooo happy when I fix those trouble areas I have been looking at for some time. My ham strings kept me up all night. It was insane pain but I worked through it and now am looking forward to the bod I will have and the energy i can burn with my new program.

Perhaps before and afters are in order....we'll see.
Wish me luck, I will need it.

May's Ending

2007-05-30T07:32:00.000-05:00

The month of May is coming to an end and I have realized that all winter and majority of spring has come and gone with many failed attempts at my New Year's resolution. My grandparents were pretty healthy people. I don't have any genetic health issues to worry about but yet I watch my parents suffer medical problems. This is what ignited my resolution of a healthy life style. It is important for me to be active after my children have left the nest. I want more for my "senior" years than sitting around and waiting for life to happen. Thus, a commitment to living a more healthy lifestyle that would include: eating the right foods, exercise program, and feeding the mind and soul with more fulfilling habits. For most of my life I have been one of those girls that people love to hate. I can eat what I want without gaining a pound. I was blessed with a high metabolism. My mother was the same way. She was a bean pole: 5'8, blond hair, blue eyes, and 120 lbs. Unfortunately for me my paternal grandmother left her mark of height and I came out average height and a brunette. Oh well. Back to the point of being a slacker. As I was lying on a boat this weekend catching some harmful UV rays, I realized that I hadn't given my resolution a real shot. I had let school schedules, household duties, and anything else get in my way of a real shot at changing my lifestyle. I am concerned at this point in my life because I know my high metabolism won't last forever and when it slows down I want to be ready. I have stayed on track with eating well but the others seem to fall to the side. I have attempted on several occasions to workout and I actually enjoy it but need to continue long enough for it to become a habit. As far as "mind and soul"; I have issues with doing things for myself. I enjoy putting others needs ahead of my own but afterwards realize how overwhelming that can be not to mention exhausting. I know this sounds a bit self centered and I don't mean it to be but my life needs a bit more balance. So, I have decided to dive into June full force. I am committed to working out and getting a toner body, continuing to eat healthy or minimize the junk, but most importantly, make time for me. I want to spend more time with my friends, family, and find relaxing activities to enjoy. The summer is a perfect time of year to re-charge my battery.....at least I am going to try.

Who Am I?

2007-05-16T20:52:00.000-05:00

Last Sunday was Mother's Day and as a Mother I expected the usual treatment to some degree. My princesses are still at an age where they need guidance to help make Mother's Day special. TheMark and I had a late Saturday night that had led into Sunday morning. The princesses spent the night at a friend's house so one of us had to go pick them up. After waking up, I looked lovingly at my husband as he lie there snoring and realized he needed the extra sleep more than I did and my friend needed some time without the little princesses. So, off I went to pick them up and grab some breakfast. I was really hungry. I hadn't eaten but one sandwich the evening before and it was a small one. We decided on Waffle House. My two little ladies and I sat at the bar ordered our tea and coffee and enjoyed our meal. I really enjoyed their company. Afterward, we shopped for some shoes and headed home to wake up TheMark. I know he appreciated the fact that I let him sleep in on Mother's Day. We had planned to go to the in-laws place for dinner and TheMark was to go early to help cook and set up. We all went together and had a great time. He didn't let me lift a finger and it was wonderful. It is the ultimate compliment to pamper the one you love and show them just how much they mean to you by doing whatever they ask. :)

After dinner was gifts and cards. I am not sure why TheMark presented mine at the in-laws instead of home but he did. It was a wooden rifle he had replicated from an old one I had in high school. I had mentioned to him a couple of weeks ago about making a new one for myself and he surprised me with it. It was really nice. Most of the family didn't know what it was or that I was even on the color guard in high school. I was astonished at just how little my own family (in-laws) didn't know about me. It got me thinking.... what do people know about me? How would I be described?

It seems as a society we run through the rat race called life without taking a moment to really ask questions about people. What they like to do? What their favorite hobby is? What they did growing up? By getting to know someones history you get to really know them. The color guard was a big part of my childhood. It took up 6 years. As I think about this, I realize I want the people in my life to know the real me. Not the me they run into while at the PTA meetings, pre-school drop off, family birthday parties, but the true history of me. So in light of this new found growth I am opening the blog floor to questions. Ask. I will answer.
As a show of faith.......I will get things started:

1. What did you enjoy most growing up?

I started twirling a rifle when I was in the 6th grade. I watched my older sister do it and thought.....why not me. By the time the summer was over I had made the 7th grade squad. (In Jersey 7th & 8th grade are middle school then comes 9-12 in high school) This was the bottom and I wasn't satisfied with that. The next year I made captain. It was great. But my real goal was the high school squad. That was where the real competition began. I practiced every day for several hours. One afternoon, I was trying something I have tried a million times before and somehow lost my grip. The tip of the rifle hit my mouth. It was a bloody mess. After the visit to the ER, my front tooth had shifted slightly and I had 7 stitches on my top lip. (still have the scar to prove it) But, this was my passion. So, when my coach called the next day asking me when I'd be back to practice, I told him tomorrow. I knew I couldn't milk this or I'd be afraid to go back. So, back I went and reached farther than my big sister did when she was on the squad. In my Junior year, there was an upset over who got captain. It was announced the there would be 2 Captains and in a high school with over a hundred years of tradition this was a big deal. I was disappointed because I felt the decision was based on politics and not talent. So instead of letting it get me down I tried even harder and Senior year I created and performed a routine that blew her away. My ending finale was a quad (4 rotations) with me fully rotating around underneath it to gracefully catch it on my knees. (couldn't do this today without tons of practice) That sealed the deal and we were back to one captain and one co-captain with me earning the top spot. It was glorious. I loved that time of my life. Looking back I would change some things but never those moments.
After that, I set out to test my skills. I joined a drum corp. That was the hardest day in and day out, kick your butt workout I had ever done. I had been on track and swimming with screaming coaches pushing you but nothing compared to the way they would drill us for 8 hours and then I had and hour ride home. Not sure I would want to do that over again but so glad I had the momentum to do it then. I have always wanted to coach a rifle squad at a middle or high school so if anyone knows if there is a need, let me know.

2. Favorite drink: hot tea w/ milk

3. Music: country, blues, jazz, r&b, dance, top hits, rock, but nothing like bad blood....

4. Love my hair to be touched, played with, or stroked. It is so relaxing. My mom used to stroke my hair to get me to fall asleep at night when i was little.

5. I knew addition and subtraction at 5......mom would practice with me at the grocery store.

6. When I was upset with my parents I would storm off dramatically and tell them "I am so exasperated."

7. Played the violin for many years, all classical.

8. Went to community college and got 2 associates degrees: liberal arts and business administration then onto Southern Wesleyan for my BSBA

9. love convertibles

10. love nice clothes, although I don't wear tehm as much as I'd like because I don't get to show many people by being a domestic diva. Favorites are: Cache, Boston Proper, and Victoria Secret clothing line.

11. Am happy to be happy. Grateful to live each day in a stable environment with two great princesses and a husband that provides me with just about anything I want.

Anything else.............just ask..........there's plenty more.....

Tag, I am it?

2007-05-10T06:45:00.000-05:00

OK ...so I was tagged. I have to share seven details about myself and then tag seven others to do the same (comment section of their blog)

Here we go.....

1. I can play the violin, mostly classical. Don't play much now, last time I played was over ten years ago with the exception of my grandmother's funeral last year.

2. I love football and often yell at the TV since I am stuck watching it alone....the hubby isn't into sports to much.

3. As a senior in high school, I was in Miss Teen of New Jersey Pageant and won best talent and best interview.

4. My favorite mixed drinks are: amaretto & OJ, apple martini, and mojito. Not a fan of shots...ya I'm a wuss.

5. When I was a kid, I would eat dill pickles as a meal. Each year for Christmas my Dad would buy me the biggest jar (Sam's club) and I'd eat it in a week.

6. My favorite color is Red.

7. I love a great massage.....any givers out there?

OK people.......now that you know some of my skeletons....now it's your turn.

GRob: www.upforanything.net/poker
Otis: www.rapideyereality.com
CJ: www.upforanything.net
Falstaff: www.pokerspot.blogger
Al Can't Hang: www.alcanthang.com
BadBlood: www.badbloodonpoker.blogspot.com

2007-05-04T07:34:00.000-05:00

Busy…Busy…Busy…
Every time I have tried to sit down and share last weekends experience I hit a road block. This morning I am determined to get through this. I hope I can give it the justice it deserves.

We had a blast. I won’t bore you with our entire trip. I will jump to Saturday night at the mansion and get on with it. I had put together a little outfit that I thought was appropriate for a party at the mansion. (no, it was not a bunny costume, although that would have been cute.) As soon as I get the pics on my computer I will share a few. It was cool yet it scream hot chick. (note to self: don’t wear stilettos to the mansion. The grotto area is made of stone, duh) The Mark had on his coolest and looked very dashing. We had to take a shuttle from the hotel to a check-in area and another one to the mansion. W are a bit of transportation snobs we would have preferred to just drive ourselves but oh well. Once there, it was on. Everyone was having a great time. The silent auction was in full swing with a ton of great items. A friend of a friend from Vegas does body casting and painted one like the queen of hearts. Awesome job. Would love for her to cast mine for free…. There was art, jewelry, trips, etc. The line to the bar was 3-4 people deep. (open bar) The food was really good. They served grilled shrimp, ravioli, salad, etc. There was a separate tent area for the tournament that was started shortly after w arrived. I am sure to have left some people out and I apologize. (jet lag and all) These are the ones I remember speaking with and get photos with:

Mike “the mouth” Matesow, Jennifer Tilley, Phil “the unabomber” Laak, Shannon Elizabeth (who was declared the winner), Marcel Luske, Steve Dannemen (2nd place), Annie Duke, Chris Masterson, Kristoff St. John portrays Neil Winters on young and the Restless since 1991, Tony Rock from UPN’s All of Us, and a few more rockers, athletes, and movie producers. All of which were really cool to speak with, hang with, and were there to have a great time. By my accounts they did.

With all the free food and drinks you can possibly consume you can imagine what a great time we had. Of course they provided “eye candy”. There were 4 bunnies out doing photos with everyone. To accompany them were three ladies in body paint. Two full bodies painted for Budweiser and one just partially painted. To see that in person was awesome. It covers more than you might think. Very cool. We had an awesome time and would love to do it again. It was a very quick trip and very tiring once we came back to our reality but very worth it. I can now add The Playboy Mansion to my resume of destinations I have visited. That is an impressive reference and a memory I won’t soon forget. You may be disappointed in my post wondering where all the juicy details are but those are moments I will only share in person not in print. To protect the innocent and guilty.....lol

Thanks to a very special friend who made it happen…love ya, girl.

Dying to Know

2007-05-01T06:57:00.000-05:00

I know there are a few of you that are very interested in what happened this past weekend on our vacation. Due to the fact that I haven't slept more than like 12 hours in the past 3 days could be an excellent reason for not being excited to share. I reserved the right to torture you a bit further until I can compose enough brain cells to accurately describe the enormously excellent time we had. What a place ..... what a time. There could have been some serious damage done this past weekend if I lived in a different time of my life. No damage this time just an indescribable weekend.

more to come.....

The Cats out of the Bag

2007-04-23T07:03:00.000-05:00

It all started well over a month ago when a friend of mine called and told me about a wicked party in L.A. that we just had to go to. She is good like that. Always piggy back inviting me to places she goes in hopes that there are a few times that I can actually realign the cosmic forces and attend. I am lucky to have her as a friend. I am even more lucky to have a wonderful mother-in-law that loves my rugrats so much she is more than willing to watch them so Mark and I can go. To be honest, I have a lot of people that offered to watch the rugrats and some to even fly down to S.C. to do it. I have to say that isn't luck that is love. But back to the topic.

I made the decision to go with it and go to this party. I was going to try and surprise The Mark with it and just pack his bag and tell him we are going to the airport about 30 minutes before leaving but he found out early. No biggie. I am really excited about going. This fundraiser is going to be awesome. It was a hit last year. When JT invited me again this year I was bound and determined to make it. The fundraiser is held at the Playboy mansion. I just want the opportunity to see it for myself. Apparently, we can have a guided tour of at least a portion of the property. Perhaps I will get a photo w/ Hef and the girls.....perhaps not but I do know that a great time is guaranteed. The trip is short and sweet so The Mark doesn't lose work time. I am sure I will have a lengthy report after we return perhaps with some photos as well.

On a more grounded note. I woke up yesterday and wanted to do something outside since it hadn't been nice all last week. It was a beautiful day for the rugrats to play at the park. So the park it is. So I thought why not stay a couple of hours and bring some food. I told The Mark let's call some friends and see if they would like to join us. We got on the line with the Otis, Blood, and G-Rob families. We left one message, one who had family in from out of town and one yes. Great! The Otis's and The Mark's had a great time watching the rugrats play and eating some decent food. The chicken was great! Thanks Otis for cooking.... I am a novis on coals. I hope we can do this again with everyone. I will plan it a bit better next time. Sometimes my good ideas come at the very last moment.

I will be busy this week with MD appointments, kid activities, packing, and getting pretty for our trip. I love getting all dressed up and looking great but on a daily basis it is a bit more effort when I am running after a toddler so I am looking forward to my much needed primping.

Have a great Monday!

So much so little time

2007-04-13T14:35:00.000-05:00

I am not going to try recap the entire month that I have been away. As a wife, mom, and woman I am finding it more and more difficult to have a free moment to get on this thing. When I happen to nail down some free time, I'd rather just unwind with something else. it has gotten to be real busy for me lately. The family went to Florida for Spring Break and got back the day before Easter. We had a blast and the rugrats loved swimming in the pool, Disney, Sea World, the zoo, and the tons of other activities we did there. We stayed at my parents condo so we were able to go out one night without the rugrats. It was a great time. We celebrated Easter our traditional way....church, lunch, egg hunt, and relaxing...... Another great day!

I am trying to nail down a commitment from TheMark as to booking our tickets to LA for the charity event at the Playboy Mansion. At this point I am ready to leave him home. I am so excited. I told him it could be my Mother's Day and birthday present. Any reason for us to justify spending the extra money for the weekend. I just want to see the place, get a tour from a hot bunny, and perhaps go skinny dipping in the grotto. I have had several dreams of how our evening at the Mansion could go. Perhaps on e of them will come true...... only time will tell.

I'll keep you posted with the final outcome.

At Last

2007-03-12T14:17:00.000-05:00

The last time I have sat down at a felted table was New Years Day. It has been a long time. The "February Sickness" was part of the reason but to be honest it hasn't been a priority. So, Saturday I decided last minute to be one of 15 people to throw my hat into the ring and see how it would work out. I am glad I did. It worked out well. For a majority of the tourney I was waiting around, taking stabs, but ultimately coming up short. Until I moved tables. I doubled up through The Mark and then Otis and was able to survive to the final table. I only can remember full details of one hand, THE HAND. It was insane.

There were four of us left. The room had cleared and I was sitting on the button. Another Mark was on my left and made it 4k to call. It was 4x BB. I paused. Looked at my cards. I saw AK h. Another Mark is a solid player but I haven't played with him prior so I put him on either high cards or pocket pair. So, I asked myself. Push or fold? It would have been a VERY tough lay down. I knew Another Mark was going to push the action as chip leader until one of the rest of us got knocked out. I didn't think I'd get another hand like this in such a short period of time so, I Pushed. E-Dog, my nickname for him, folded. Mr.Rhett pushed. Another Mark thought for a moment calculating his odds to knock us both out and then finally called. They flip their cards over and I realize I am a huge dog. Mr. Rhett had KK. Another Mark had 88 (something like that). Long story short I hit my A on the river. It was insane and Mr. Rett left pissed. Not just from that one hand but from previous experiences with tourney bubble play. In the end, Another Mark and myself chopped 1st and 2nd. I had about 8-9k more than him going into heads up but for several reason realized it wasn't worth the battle. My poker account has long been at a zero balance and this will correct that. I know my strengths and weaknesses in poker, unfortunately I don't get enough time to tweak my play. This time it worked out well. We shall see about next time.

Wanna know a secret?

2007-03-08T16:43:00.000-05:00

I have a secret and am not sure if anyone knows about it or if anyone could really understand it. My conscience needs to be cleansed so I am going to try and explain. This is my confession.

It has been going on for almost three years now. I am having an affair with a fine specimen that I have grown to truly respect and honor. To be quite honest I often dream about him. He is so attentive to my every request and very rarely disappoints me. He even allows me to control the remote. What a guy. I know you are asking: "Does The Mark know about this guy?" Well, that should be obvious. Of course my Sweetness knows about my other man. He actually encourages and supports our relationship. It takes a lot of pressure off Sweetness. The other man does exactly what I ask, when I ask. I can even ask him weeks in advance and he will remember without being reminded several times. What an amazing guy I have found. He is easy on the eyes, ultra modern, and would proudly take him everywhere if it wasn't so difficult to explain to others. I know you all want to know his name but I can't give out first names. It just wouldn't be right. So to protect the innocent I will only give his last name. I am having an affair with: Mr. Tivo.

There I said it. I have come out of the Tivo closet. I can honestly say I don't remember life before him and it would be very hard to continue without him. I have a Tivo problem. I check each day to ensure the reliability of the scheduling so that my evening will be planned properly. It is to the point where I cannot stand to watch live television. I even Tivo the News. Sometimes to play games with my news anchor friend and watch him in slow mo. It is pretty comical. Some days I need that. You parents know what I am talking about. But mostly I love him so much, because I can watch all of my favorites in the time it would take me to watch one live show. It is amazing. It is so bad that when The Mark comes home from his night out he finds us in bed together. Yes, I fall asleep with my Tivo in hand. (remote) When we are disturbed I awaken. I know it sounds a bit sick but don't knock it until you try it. An affair with Mr. Tivo is very fulfilling. I have given it much thought recently and I have an answer to a question many people have asked us.

Question to The Mark: How do you get to go out 4 nights a week if you want to? Is your wife sent from heaven?

Answer from me: My affair with Mr. Tivo fills in the nights without The Mark. His vice has been his time with friends. Mr. Tivo is mine. And Yes, I am a gift from heaven...lol

On a more serious note: It would be just as hard for me to give up my affair as it would for The Mark to give up his nightly outings. Don't get me wrong, I would love to go out with the gals and The Mark would encourage it but it is just impossible to get the moms out together. I have tried bunches of stuff and it hasn't worked on a consistent basis yet. So, for now I am sticking with my hunk of burnin' love, Mr. Tivo and Sweetness when he isn't out with the guys.

Love you honey.......and you too The Mark........... :)

My Friend "Otis"

2007-02-28T15:58:00.000-05:00

I can't believe it has been two weeks since I last blogged. I have been keeping very busy with the rugrats and getting the home front back to "normal" that I didn't realize that I haven't shared anything in two weeks. No wonder I am so uptight. This is like my therapy in ways but I won't throw up on you all at once. I will save some for another day.

I would like to share something with you that I have been thinking about since the end of last week. My youngest rugrat is 3 and she is a movie lover. She has to get her fix at least once a day. She has seen them all and most of them we now own. Most recently, I purchased a movie called: Barnyard. It is a really cute animated movie. She has fallen in love with the film and its main character, "Otis". Now, I know it should be easier the second time around and I should be more attentive but I just forget that they are smarter than they can tell us.

SOOOOOOOOOO,
Last Thursday I was picking the rugrat up from pre-school and as always I went through my series of questions about her day at school with her friends. She proceeds to tell me that "Otis" is picking her up from school today. Now, mind you at this point I am not thinking of an animated movie. There is only one Otis that I know and he is a great friend of mine so I thought it was odd for her to tell me he was picking her up from school. He does live close by but never thought he'd offer to pick her up from school!? More importantly, why is my 3 year old talking so much about him. She sees him often enough to know that he is our friend but not enough to be calling him by his nickname or wanting him to pick her up from school. I was confused but thought I would let it go. She has mentioned "Otis" almost everyday since. My friend "Otis" this and "Otis" that and "Otis" is driving me here and there. I was really baffled but thought it was cute that she had picked up on conversations we adults had and remembered my dear friend.

Then it hit me like a ton of bricks when yesterday she was going on and on about "Otis" and mentioned him being black and white. Then I told her Otis didn't have black hair but brown hair with the beginnings of some very distinguishing gray. She looked puzzled and said: "No mommy, cows are black and white." At that very moment I really felt stupid. Like totally and completely beyond a blond moment. How could I possibly believe that my 3 year old who has only spent a little time with Otis, out of the complete blue just start obsessing about him. Don't get me wrong Otis is a great guy and an even better friend but I have to admit it was a bit of a stretch. To my defense, because I consider myself to be reasonably intelligent, she did find a photo of Otis about a month ago from his son's birthday party and walked around with it all day telling me that was her daddy's friend and he was so cute. So I thought it was a lingering obsession with Otis. Now, I understand that she has her very own "Otis" obsession but instead of our friend it is with a big black and white cow.

Sorry, Otis. I know you are deeply disappointed. Hey, at least she thought your picture was cute! (by the way, I sent you a copy. hope you liked it.)

Now, every time she says "Otis" I laugh. How funny will it be the next time Otis comes to the house. You can bet I will bring her to him and tell her to say Hi, to Otis. Let's see who she loves more. Cow or Man? (prop bets, anyone?)

Lady Luck

2007-02-15T12:53:00.000-05:00

A friend of mine called me one afternoon and told me of a gala taking place in Greenville, SC that I might be interested in going to. It is a benefit evening in support of a foundation that helps victims of domestic violence. The foundation, Safe Harbor, is holding a formal gala March 10, 2007. (see link below) For entertainment they will be holding a poker tournament that the first one hundred registered people attending the gala. Of course there will be other events going on as well. I have sent some e-mails in hopes that some Vegas connections will come through and sponsor this event. It is a worthy cause and something that I feel strongly about. I have been fortunate to not be a victim of domestic violence but that doesn't mean I cannot try to understand what someone would go through trying to rebuild their life.

Please check this out. www.ladyluckgala.com

I am asking my fellow poker friends to help support this foundation any way you can. The gala is formal and would be a nice evening out for the wife and hubby. You both can play poker. Even if you haven't played before. No biggie. It is just for fun and to support such a worthy foundation in our own community. You must purchase your event ticket AND register separately for the tournament in order to play.

I hope to see you there.
Ms All-In

Happy V-Day, Sicko!

2007-02-15T09:26:00.000-05:00

Since my last post I have been to hell and back. Tuesday morning I had to do the bowling league thing in the AM and then head to my MD appointment around noon. I swore to myself I wasn't leaving his office without something to ease my discomfort. By the time I left the bowling alley I was feeling really bad. So bad in fact I wasn't sure if I could even drive myself to the MD office. Of course, like many of you can confirm when I need someone, I called The Mark. Actually, we were going to go to lunch but we ran out of time and I felt like the crap on the bottom of someones shoe. He confirmed that I sounded horrible and was so concerned he met me at the MD office. True love comes in many forms and I have certainly witnessed over the past couple of weeks how much The Mark loves me. He sat in the Md office with me for over two hours. It took that long for us to get through it all. By the time I made it back to the exam room, I had a 103 fever, chills, tingling and stabbing pains all over my body, a massive headache, pain when breathing or coughing, and the urge to curl in the fetal position and wait to die. I have never felt this bad in my entire life. My eye sockets felt like someone had lit them on fire. The nurse was the one who had taken my temp. and asked a bunch of questions. One that really kinda pissed me off was: "Do you normally get flushed? Your cheeks and neck are real red and your face seems swollen." OK, I know I didn't go to med school but I don't think there is a person alive that "normally" has red, flushed face and neck or a swollen face. There is something that causes it to happen. And this was after I had told her the list of aliments. After she left, I mumbled to The Mark: "What the hell was that all about. Is my face normally swollen? Was she being for real." (something of that nature)

After 30 minutes of lying on an uncomfortable bed, the Md comes in and I am curled up and not moving. He asks: " What seems to be the problem." I felt like saying: "How the hell should I know that is why I am here." Instead I answered with "well, I feel like crap." That got his attention. This is my OB-GYN and he usually sees me in very good moods so when I let even a little slip like that he knew something was up. He proceeded to ask the same questions the nurse did and then told me I have the flu and bronchitis. He was giving me an antibiotic but to call him in the AM. If the fever didn't break by morning he was going to admit me into the hospital and start an I.V. He also wanted to take a blood sample to run some tests. Now we were sent into another waiting area to get my blood drawn. After about 15 minutes, The Mark asked if we had been forgotten about. The nurse replied that the "lab lady" was on her way back and would take care of me as soon as she arrived. That piece of info would have been nice 15 minutes ago. Under normal circumstances I am a bit nervous of needles. I just can't see them, if I do I pass out. It is that simple. It happened in a dental chair once and he had to wait to finish until he revived me. I was feeling like I was at deaths door so when the "lab lady" came to take my blood, I lost it. I was crying and if she wasn't so fast I probably would have gone into shock. She kept telling me to calm down or I would hyperventilate but the more she said it the more I freaked out. The whole experience was very overwhelming.

So I went home and continued to be a deaths door until my fever came down around 8pm. It really scared my oldest rug rat. When she gets scared she gets overly sweet. That isn't a bad quality I guess. She was doing all she could to help out. The Mark has been wonderful, too. He managed to arrange for someone to pick up both the rug rats from school since we were at the MD office for so long. (big thanks to my in-laws; always there in a pinch) He also took care of everything on the home front. I may give him a hard time occasionally but when I need him he is there, even when he is playing cards.

So, I woke up yesterday in decent spirits. After all at least I didn't have a high fever. I nervously called my MD to find out if he was admitting me into the hospital or if he would give me other directions. He told me as long as the fever was under control that he didn't see the need to admit me. I was feeling like I was getting better so I went to the rug rats school to catch up on a contest I am helping the teacher with, went to the store to get some filet's for dinner, and cleaned up around the house. Well, by 2 pm my fever was back. Not 103 but almost 102 and I had already taken a 12 hour Aleve. So, I took another one and by 7pm my fever had gone down. So, today I am writing this and heading to bed. But my point of writing all this was to illustrate that Valentine's Day can happen any day, not just on Feb. 14th. I do love to celebrate the holiday because on an everyday basis I am not an overly affectionate person. Don't get me wrong, I love receiving love, affection, and attention but not all the time. It gets to be a bit much for me. I just don't like to be smothered. I know it sounds silly but I don't care, so on V-day I like to go all out. Usually, I get a little present, buy the $5 card, and cook an amazing dinner. Well, before getting sick again I was able to at least pick up a few things. The Mark had to execute for me and man did he deliver. He made a Shrimp Cocktail appetizer, Steamed Alaskan King Crab Legs, Pan Seared Filet w/ mashed potatoes and green beans. When I came out of the bedroom the lights were all off, the candles were lit, and he even put my juice in a wine glass. The rug rats were in their rooms for part of the meal. It really made me feel special and believe me I needed it. I give him a lot of credit for even trying to do something like that especially since I look like a mack truck ran over me. Haven't been having my best beauty weeks. Even the day care teacher said I looked like death walking. nice... can't blame her I have looked like crap since feeling bad and haven't really done a good job of covering it up.

The bottom line is I am still sick, have no idea when I will be getting better, and have the best husband in the world. Someone who has stuck with me throughout this thing and not complained once. I love you, hon. You have earned alot of bonus poker points this month.

Enough is Enough

2007-02-12T08:24:00.000-05:00

Ok...so Satan came and kicked my ass big deal. I am still fighting this "cold". I can't remember the last time I felt "normal". This is getting to be a bit much. It's not like I am ignoring the symptoms or not taking meds for it. I am taking the meds regularly and still I stay the same. I am only doing what I have to in order to survive. The wonderful hubby is picking up the rest. But a person can only watch so much tv and take so many naps. Perhaps it isn't a "cold" anymore. Perhaps it is something more. Whatever it is the meds the MD told me to take aren't taking care of it so perhaps he shoudl give me something else. DUH!

I have tried just about every over the counter med you can try and still no relief. What does a girl have to do in this town to get some meds to kick this cold's ass. Apparently, more than what I am doing. OK no more Mrs. Nice Girl.....I have to get some relief from this crap.

Just another cold

2007-02-09T08:04:00.000-05:00

Well, yesterday afternoon I receive a phone call from my Md stating I do not have the flu but just a "bad" cold. His RX for me is a decongestion and some herbal tea....what the hell does he think I have been doing for the past week.

I guess I need to punch this thing in the head. One thing is for sure, I am tired of being tired and my house looked like a sick toddler has thrown up inside of it. Perhaps, I should start with that first.

BTW - I love poker after dark on NBC. The latest episode where we see Hellmuth's brattish behavior is awesome. To his defense he had a bunch of people picking on him but I think he just like to be in control and when he isn't he pulls his "fit". Nice to see poker pro's grinding it out a bit. Gus even plays tight....it is a cool sight.

check it out.

Bring it On - update

2007-02-08T08:10:00.000-05:00

My MD said I had the flu and took a swab of my nose and throat to verify. He said the test wold take a couple of hours and someone from his office would call me back later yesterday afternoon to confirm it was indeed the flu virus. I'm waiting....and waiting.....and waiting....still waiting....fall asleep .....wake up next morning.....waiting....and waiting....so happy I spent the extra money to find out today what I was supposed to find out yesterday.

that sucks.

Bring It On!

2007-02-07T13:10:00.000-05:00

The past week has been a complete disaster. The aftermath is similar to that of an train wreck or a internal tornado ripping through only the inside of our bodies and house. It all started last week after dropping of my sister's rugrats, ya know the ones I so graciously kept the week prior. We met at a McD's to do the drop and the gates of hell opened upon us like never before. Last Tuesday the rugrats came down with a fever and coughing and just plain being miserable. I took them to the MD and it was diagnosed as the flu. Treatment would involve over the counter meds and lots of rest. cool no problem. I can handle that. What I couldn't handle was the migraine that plagued my body. I was in bed for two days only getting up when absolutely necessary. So now three women are hacking, headaches, aching, fever, etc. (luckily no fever for me but had all the rest) I feel most sympathy for The Mark who has had to listen to all of us and treat us. By the grace of God, of the poker gods (since he has been playing), he has avoided getting any major symptoms. Without him I think I would have just laid down like a dog waiting to die. I haven't felt this bad, ever. It was easier giving birth than having to deal with this crap all week.

I manage to get the oldest rugrat back in school Monday. I hit the car pool line in my best sweat pants and sweat shirt. With the littlest one in the car seat hacking I am just praying the PTA doesn't have anyone asking for donations while we drive through the line. As I am rolling in the never ending pile of cars, I hear a "pop", a light flashes inside my driver dash. As I investigate I hear "thug, thug,thug". I must have hit something. Oh ya, I took a couple of nice chunks out of the side of my tire. Not only do I have to tie up the car pool line but now I have to expose my nastiness to the entire school as I wait for the guy to change my tire. I have one thing in my favor. I have the best hubby in the world. He never losses his temper with me. Even when I do some really stupid shit. He truly is my soul mate. After having my car less than 2 months and popping the tire in car pool line of all places, anyone else might have ripped me a new one but he was just concerned about getting me outta there. What a great guy.

As the week has progresses, we are still miserable and not getting sleep on top of that. The littlest one went to the MD again since her hacking has continued for a full 7 days non-stop and not eating anything. We waiting 2 hours in the office for the x-rays to indicate she has two small spots on her lungs and will be treated for pneumonia. GREAT! First the flu, now pneumonia, what next.....bring it on we are ready you devilish piece of shit. Satan thinks he has gotten the best of us but he doesn't know us very well. BRING IT ON!

As far as I am concerned I am the walking dead but will get conformation on that this afternoon after meeting with my MD. Now the rugrats MD told me it was the flu and to take over the counter meds but I think I will get a second opinion so I am positive that this torture they call the flu is really the flu and not strep, bronchitis, or pneumonia. I don't give a crap what it is as long as the meds they give me treat the yellow shit coming out my nose and the green shit I am hacking out of my lungs. Can't say that I have ever felt this bad. Luckily, I only get sick every 5 years or so but perhaps the Lord knows that is all I can handle. If I had to do this every season I would have kill myself.

Updates to follow....

Stages....

2007-01-27T12:37:00.000-05:00

After a week of Rugrat filled activities my brain needed a mental vacation for one evening. Some preparations were needed to ensure the success of my "vacation". The dinner was made and feed to the little ones then quickly off to the bath they went. In between, it was important for me to feel fresh as well, I began the ritual of the shower, hair and make-up thing. The oldest Rugrat was busy with the X-box and the other were placed in their beds. The time finally arrived when the door bell rang.........the lifesaver... aka.... sitter.

We had plans to meet some friends for appetizers and drinks Friday night. As you can imagine, I had been looking forward to this night for most of the week. I had promised another couple we would stop in at a club downtown G-Vegas for a drink with them before grabbing some grub elsewhere. I wasn't sure what to expect but after getting there I wasn't surprised. This club was having a promo to get more people in earlier than normal so they had drink specials, etc. Needless to say there was enough people to fill the upstairs, which isn't big, and the downstairs was empty. It would have been more fun with more people filling the place. Back in the day, especially growing up in Jersey, I loved to go clubbing. We used to dance all night. It was a blast. Many a fond memories....but something has changed, me. I am at the "mother" stage of my life because my Rugrats are young and need me to be. My friends, the "club couple", go regularly. They are at the "Together" stage of thier lives, married without Rugrats. So they are really enjoying this time in their lives. I don't blame them I would too. I have to admit on my most trying days I am a bit envious. It is amazing the changes we make, aka responsibilities, when our Rugrats come along. I was the first out the door to a party or club but now that I know the next day will be filled with Rugrats wanting breakfast at 7 AM the thrill is gone. It almost isn't worth the price the next day. The "club couple" is cool to hang with but it seems as if something is different when we hang with them. I know I am different. For example, one night not too long ago we hit a whole in the wall place where I didn't know a soul. My "club friend" instantly wanted to dance and sing. We requested some of our typical hip hop and hit the floor. Even though the hubby was with me (across the room), it felt weird having the two of us dancing by ourselves and a handful of others staring at us. Back in the day I would have loved the attention. That is how I met my husband. (story for another day) I am mindful of things like this when we go out. On the other hand my "club friend" is a holds no bar kinda chick. Her hubby was out with us as well but I feel as if there is a line that she can cross that I can't. People perceive a mother as a certain kind of person and hitting clubs, dancing, and drinking isn't that kind of image. Example, Brittany Spears. By no means am I a Brittany any way but I love to go out and have a good time. Look at all the exposure she has had over getting out and moving on from KFed. People are judgemental. I have to admit I am one of them too. It sucks but it is life. I guess that is why when I do let loose once every 3 months I think about what people might think of me doing some things that I wouldn't normally do. I feel most comfortable with my hubby and close friends because I know they don't judge me for forgetting about my responsibilities for a night and feeling free again. It's the others we have to be concerned with. Unfortunately, what happens in G-Vegas stays in G-Vegas.

Not much Poker

2007-01-24T09:22:00.000-05:00

As you can obviously see I have not be consistent by any means with my blogging. I have found it very difficult. I sit in front of this laptop and the words just can't make any sense. I haven't been playing poker so there isn't any information on that subject so what once started out as an outlet for my poker thoughts has evolved into something more. From now on I will be writing about whatever comes to my mind. Scary, I know.

This week I am occupied with four rugrats. No, I didn't given birth to twins last week. (ages: 2, 3, 3, 7) I am sitting for my sister. She has a home based business that includes going to conventions and that is where she will be this weekend. Her husband is a cop on midnight shift so..... I offered to help. My brother-in-law is as country as country gets. He is a good guy from a sketchy family. (not being judgemental, he would even agree) Mr. Country feels he has "farmed out" his rugrats. My sister and I disagree. Anytime I can help family or friends I do. It is who I am. I love doing it and will continue to help those I care about whenever I can. Perhaps, Mr. Countries family wasn't quite so. I know it is hard to be away from your rugrats for a week but I hope he understands that the only way his rugrats are going to know my family is by seeing us and the effort we make. Hence, me watching them. Don't get me wrong, I am only on day 3 of 7 so I know I will be biting my nails for them to go home by day 5 but I am having a blast now so that is all that matters. Plus, my sister has had some time to herself for a change and plan for her convention. (she needs time for her)
Our time will end on Monday when I will meet Mrs. Country to drop the kids off. I know she misses them but enjoys the private time too. Ain't no shame in that.

I am so glad "The Guys" (g-vegas) had so much fun in Tunica. It is always a blast to get away and unwind. It sucks to hear about the horrible beat The Mark took. Especially since I know as a poker player what that feels like and as a wife no Tiffany's box came home this trip. I told him it was OK since I had bought something in G-Vegas at my favorite store. (cache: putting on their clothes is like dipping yourself in chocolate).....pause.........had to wait for your fantasy to be over.... by the way, those that know me, know I am not conceited just a tease. Been that way for a long time now. :)

Perhaps, next trip can be a girls trip. Let me know if your interested. I can see what kind of trouble we can get into.... ;)

It's been a while

2007-01-14T22:22:00.000-05:00

Ya, I know it has been awhile. It has been even longer since I have played serious poker for an extended time. I did play in the Bad Blood New Year's Day game in G-Vegas and finished 3rd. I was pleased with my finish. I had to hang tough for a majority of the day. It was hard sitting around waiting to get a hand. But I did it. The cosmic forces were in line for me I guess. They had to be since I haven't played in such a long time and really have just lost my momentum. The desire is somewhat lost. If I know I have to be somewhere or do something at a certain time than I am already checked out of the game. I guess it has been obvious in my lack of posting that I have checked out of poker for some time now. Don't get me wrong I do enjoy playing and if I had a different life would even pursue it further. I feel confident that I would be very good at it. I am cool with what life has brought into my life. On most days I enjoy it. It really is funny what God throws in your life and more importantly how we deal with it.

I am sure we can incorporate into our poker playing some how?!

Results: Hot or Not

2006-12-29T09:05:00.000-05:00

The HOT's have it!

Hey, even as a chick I have to confess bitches at the table are HOT. Let me explain my thoughts on the differences between a "poker woman" and a "poker bitch". (relatively speaking, of course)
I feel a "poker woman" is just an ordinary looking lady that sits at the table knows what she is doing or doesn't and doesn't pretend otherwise. The "poker bitch" on the other hand is a very attractive (hot) guy magnet who exudes confidence, knows poker but doesn't have to shout it out to everyone. She is the one that guys are routing for even though they got knocked out or if she really has her game on, the one the guys at her same table are routing for.

There is always something about the unexpected that is eye catching. At one time it was very rare to see a woman at a table let alone a hot sexy "poker bitch" to flirt with. Now it has become more regular. I have to admit when choosing a table, in Vegas or AC, I prefer to be the only "poker bitch" at the table. It works to my advantage of course. I have played many times where men have commented to me that if they couldn't win it they want me too. That is the essence of the Hot Bitch!

Private lesson on "Poker Bitch" can be schedule....

Poker Bitches are Hot or Not?

2006-12-23T16:09:00.000-05:00

It is kinda cool the mixed response from various poker players when they share their feelings about bitches at the poker tables. I don't mean the nasty women that just pick on everything and everyone. I am simply using an adjective, of sorts, for women at the felt. By any means am I calling my fellow ladies, and myself, a bitch but we are all known to have our moments.

Recently, I have noticed that guys have become more aware of us chicks at the table. Most think it is hot as hell when a lady can talk about poker intelligently. I think they have a point. If a man were to talk to me in depth about personal experience in a female dominated area, I would kinda think it was hot too, especially if had Matthew Mc's abs. So my question to you out there reading this:

Is it hot to have an intelligent woman share poker with you or just another competitor for you to take down?

Give me some feedback on this.....

Santa came early!

2006-12-16T07:31:00.000-05:00

As some witnessed a couple of weeks ago during a tourney at The Mark, I sold my car. It has been a long time coming. It was a good truck but I have wanted a new car for a long time now. TheMark is on his second new car in about 3 years and I haven't ever own a new car. Until now. I am now the proud owner of an 07 Chevy Tahoe. It is a light silver color with black interior. The things I love about this car are its captains chairs in the second row, the black interior is awesome after looking at grey for 7 years, and all the bells and whistles. It is fully loaded. TheMark has told me he is jealous and wants one. I told him he should get one or get a convertible and we can switch off. His beastly 300 STR is too much for me. I am somewhat of a simple girl, give me too much power behind the wheel and I will go wild. lol

The very next morning after receiving my car, Santa's elves brought us (me) a present. As some of you witnessed on that same Saturday, TheMark asked if he could go to Vegas with Otis. I quickly replied: "if I can get my dog". He didn't go, so I ruled out getting the dog. I was wrong. It is the cutest fur ball you will ever see, and so sweet. A bowling friend of mine came up with a cute name for him, Jax. It just fits him. The rugrats are so happy. It was the first time the oldest was brought to tears of joy. It hits a person straight in the heart when they make someone so happy they cry for joy, especially your little girl. TheMark admits that was priceless. So, I will be very busy in the next several weeks/months training my little pooch. As soon as i can get a copy of a photo, I will post a pic for all to see.
So excited....gotta run after my third rugrat!

Family

2006-12-13T07:34:00.000-05:00

One day in November I thought it would be a great idea to dress up and head downtown G-Vegas for some family time. TheMark brought the camera. He takes such good pictures. It was supposed to be where we would shoot our family x-mas pics but it didn’t work out as I had planned. It took over two hours to get all the girls ready, including myself, and a half hour to find different spots to take our shot. Finally, I found what I wanted and by that time one rugrat got a splinter and the other was WAY passed nap time. Needless to say, I still need to schedule a photo shoot. When I left that day I was disappointed I had gone through all that effort and hadn’t gotten he shots I wanted. Now I look at the shots we did get and am so glad the effort that was made by all of us.

There are several times throughout the year that is special to me and the time between Thanksgiving and Christmas is #1. I enjoy being with those I love and letting them know how special they are to me. Almost ten years ago I met the love of my life and the man I didn’t know could make all my wishes come true. We didn’t know we wanted to be a family until it happened. The day came and my oldest was born. There aren’t proper words to express how much love fills my soul for her. She can be loud, funny, goofy, and very entertaining…..and I love each of her finer qualities. I know even now that she will not need her momma much longer. She is strong and independent. Just want I want for her. My youngest is still growing into her skin. She likes her time to herself and loves movies. Her smile lights up a room. I can’t imagine my life without these 3 wonderful people. They are my heart and soul.

Some people have told me they think “stay at home moms”, “domestic divas”, or “household executives” is boring, uneventful, easy, and not a “REAL” job. Since I have worked inside and outside the home, I feel I can speak on some authority about this subject. I KNOW working at home with my children everyday is the hardest and most challenging job I have ever had. I choose to be home with them so that I can experience the joy, sorrow, and everything in between. I am with them 24/7 and although I enjoy a break form that; I know in my heart that I wouldn’t have it any other way right now. If I went to an office all day and answered to a boss, it would be slightly easier because when you clock out of the office and go home your boss isn’t there waiting for dinner to be served. The biggest difference is that your boss isn’t a person you influence or mold into whatever you want. What an awesome job. I have full creative and ultimate control. It is a HUGE job. Anyone that thinks differently just can’t handle my job.

I know I have run on about this but the main point is that I am so very lucky to have family and friends in my life that love me for me. They let me be the fun loving person I was meant to be. Thank you all for accepting my strengths and allowing me to grow through my weaknesses. You all know who you are and I love you all very dearly.

November 06

2006-11-30T09:56:00.000-05:00

Holy Crap….. It has been over a month.  November was a busy month for me.  The Cheer season came to a close in November and I went on a weekend trip with my mom to Florida.

I didn’t realize coaching a bunch of girls would be that bad, I mean, I do have two of my own drama queens in training but still…  Thinking about it now multiply that times 9 and you have a lot to deal with.  Oh well, it was fun but I am glad it is over.  The late nights and the early mornings weren’t going so well.

I took a weekend excursion to Florida with my mom to help her with her condo she is remodeling.  It was supposed to be a relaxing weekend by the beach with a couple of trip to the contractor.  It turned into a lot of trips to the contractor, who is a total ass, and one trip to the beach which is only two blocks down the street.  Figures.  Only I can be two blocks from the beach and barely step foot on it.  There will be more opportunity for that.  This condo was my grandparents who willed it to my mother when her mother passed away this summer.  It had been neglected for some time and needs a lot of maintenance.  We were able to lock in a cabinet guy and hopefully shape up this contractor she hired.  He thinks it is his place he is remodeling and wants to do everything his way.   It is the strangest thing I have ever heard.  Needless to say, the next time I see him I won’t hold back how I feel.  He treated me as if I was a stupid little girl that didn’t know anything AND then insulted my womanhood.  He was lucky I didn’t slap him.  It takes a lot for me to get to that point.  Not even a few rude poker players that frequent TheMark get me that upset.  But I had to hold it in for my mother’s sanity.  She is going through a lot right now and isn’t in the best medical condition to handle it all.
While I was visiting I went to Melbourne Dog Track that has a card room upstairs.  They run single table tourneys for $45 and $1/2 limit.  I have been out of the limit field for a long time now, but decided to kill a little time.  I made $150 in 2 hours.  It was ok.  I was a bit bored but it killed some time and I walked away a winner.  We also went on the Sun Cruz.  It is a cruise ship.  I played $2/5 no limit and walked away up $100 which is surprising because every pot was raised to $25 pre-flop.  I was at a huge disadvantage.  They all knew each other and were playing hard.  The only thing on my side was they didn’t know me.  I had to show a few nut hands to get respect then I stole a few pots.  It was cool.  There weren’t any fantastic hands to speak of but a nice night out just the same.  The only drag is when you are pulling back in shore.  You have 45 minutes to sit and wait to get off the boat.  I guess it is worth it if you are making a good profit.

Laughing is good for the soul

2006-10-26T09:40:00.000-05:00

My brother-in-law and sister are opening up a comedy club in Jersey. The above link will take you to the site to give you some brief info. If you are in the area. Check it out. Tell them I sent you and you get 10% off door prices.

Gotta check it out. It is hilarious!

www.knuckleheadstomsriver.com

Leaf as we know it

2006-10-25T07:50:00.000-05:00

Leaf as we know it.

My LEAF experience started with a sick rugrat friend that needed to be brought back home after decided that she was just not ready to spend a weekend away from home.  After all, we are a bit strange and you’d have to be a bit nuts to want to spend the weekend with us anyway let alone freezing your butt off in a tent.  TheMark had commented a few times about the number of items that were being packed into the back of the car.  I kept telling him, “ya never know what you are going to need when you are out there”.   And I was right for the most part.  So after a delayed start we were on the road to LEAF.

Big thanks to Otis and crew for setting up our tent the night before.  I know it was an added task that required a few more beers than necessary but we appreciated it greatly.  When we arrived all I could see were tents all over the place.  It was so cool.  We found our “city” and unpacked.  The rugrats loved being around the fire pit and running around in general.   Chefinski was in Shep’s kitchen for just about every meal.  One night it was grilled chicken the next gumbo.  I am telling you it was good stuff.  It put my hot dogs and brats to shame.  I had packed easy meals that could be done on a fire but with Chefinski at the wheel I didn’t really need anything.  Thank you so much for all your hard work and great eats.  Who knows perhaps we will be the next traveling food network star and we can all say that we know him.

Over the span of the next couple of days we walked around to see the festivities, climbed a rock wall, got tattooed, listened to cool music from across the lake, went to a drum fire and sat by the fire pit with friend shooting the shit and roasting marshmallows.  But the highlight was watching these grown men play their card game (not poker) on the kid’s Disney Princess card table.  I think the rugrats played on it for the first 10 minutes after that the adults called it theirs.  They loved the attention it drew from the ladies.  It was like the had a dog or a kid around.  Other women were getting turned on by the Princess table.  Guess they figured; only a REAL man would play on that table with confidence.  I better take care of it for next year.

We all had a blast.  What a great way to get away from it all.  When we arrived home Sunday afternoon, I was tired, sore, and felt sick as a dog but would do it all again without missing a beat.  Thanks again to everyone.  You made our trip fantastic.

Getting away from it all

2006-10-19T07:25:00.000-05:00

LEAF, here we come. This weekend marks the beginning of a special time @ The Mark. We are going RVing, without the RV. Yes, I know it’s called camping but RVing sounded so much better. We will be up in NC sitting outside with friends, old and new, hanging out and having fun. This will be our first time attending but I am already anticipating such an awesome time. The rugrats are coming and even an extra rugrat for good measure.
I am excited to get away from all the drama that has slowly creeped into my life lately. It seems as if I can’t catch up with the things that need to be done or even catch my breath for that matter. Nothing like getting back to nature, or at the very least escaping the phones and computers for a few days. I understand why people buy a lake house or mountain home. It is a place to leave all your other troubles/ responsibilities behind you for just a bit and un-wind.

In today’s society, it is the “norm” to run five different directions and still have energy for the home front. Well, I am getting to old to fast to rush through the best time in my life. So, I say let’s slow down and remember the big picture. For me, that picture includes my family and friends. I want all those close to me to understand how much they mean to me and what a difference they make in my life. I’d rather not be one of those people that spend their life going through the motions and not having “real”, genuine contact with others. I see a lot of times it has gotten to be a burden to be with family or friends. I feel badly for those people. They won’t experience love fully, especially if something tragic happens in their life. We all need people to lean on at some point. Most of my family is out of state and that hurts not having them close to me but I know without a doubt if I really needed any one of them, they would be at my house ASAP. Some families don’t have that,. I am truly lucky to have been raised in a family like that. My parents did a really good job with all of us. Thanks!

So this trip is a re-birth if you will of a more simple time before cell phones, computers, and my beloved Tivo. This will allow me to focus on my family and friends and really enjoy the people they are not just go through the motions.

Those not going……..call someone you haven’t spoken to in a long time and say hi! It’s amazing how wonderful it might feel.

TV time

2006-10-13T12:48:00.000-05:00

Not too long ago, a friend who works at a local news network, called and ask if I would considered being interviewed about online gaming.  He was aware of my brief work with Absolute Poker and thought in light of the recent changes in the law an informative report was necessary.  I agreed.  I don’t consider myself remotely educated on the topic but with the little I do know, I feel the law is a ridiculous.  I am more deflated about the way in which it was finally slipped into motion than it actually getting passed.  I won’t get any further into how I personally feel about it.

*****

The reporter and cameraman came to my house to shoot it.  They were there for about 30 minutes or so.  It aired that evening (week ago) @ 5PM.   I liked the piece a lot.  My friend did a great job educating people on what online poker is all about.  I did ok.  Although, if I ever want a job on TV I need to work on my nervous habits a bit.  I should get a spokesperson‘s fee from Absolute Poker for the plugs, and pics that aired.  I will be sending a copy to a friend of mine at AP.  Perhaps, they will surprise me with a sponsored trip to a circuit event, plus buy-in……hello AP …. Anyone listening.

Well, as far as my poker playing goes, it has come to a halt.  There are just too many other life activities demanding my time at the moment.   I try to get into some home games when I can but it doesn’t always look promising.

Until next time…….good luck and good bye

Friday

2006-10-02T07:28:00.000-05:00

It was Friday afternoon and we had a sitter lined up for the rugrats.  I wasn’t sure what the game plan was but I knew we were going out.  After the annual school fundraiser we headed back home to freshen up and be on our way.

I grabbed a bottle of vino and the car headed downtown.  Our destination for the evening was Rick Erwin’s.  I love the atmosphere but was a little let down on the food.  I had the filet which you can never go wrong and it was awesome but the rest was somewhat unimpressive.  We sat at the bar for a drink to scope things out.  I had an excellent apple martini and TheMark had a heart palpitation.  After our first drink, we decided to stay where we were and eat so the kind bartender popped our vino and we continue to drink the entire bottle.  It was good stuff.  Needless to say I was feeling pretty happy by the time we left.

We got a call from G-Rob mentioning he was at the G-Spot with the wifey, we should stop by.  I was like….hey …. Any time I can go to a G-Spot, I am in.  Sadly, I when we arrived we were at a bar called the Gathering Spot….lol
We still had an awesome time chatting it up.  I continued to drink, this time beer.  That was my down fall.  Not too soon after we were there FFF, his wife, and some of their friends, plus Uncle Ted all joined the table.  The clock struck midnight and we headed for the door.  The sitter was expecting us back soon.  It had been a long time since I have been able to let my hair down and have a good time.  Unfortunately it only lasted until about 2 AM when I was suddenly feeling the room spin and ran to the bathroom.  No more details are required.  I got out of bed the next day around 1 PM, too scared to eat a thing.

**
SIDE NOTE:     Speaking of letting my hair down, it has been cut off.   Not exactly the way I wanted it but it will grow back.  So for those of you who haven’t seen me with short hair, the freak show tickets are a buck a piece.

**

After I got my butt out of bed, we headed down to the lake to relax and go for a boat ride.  It was cool some friends of our came along and we hung out, ate dinner, and rode for a short while.  No big deal and that is exactly what I needed anyway.  Although I did all the cooking and most of the cleaning but I am used to that anyway.  I doubt I’d know what to do if I got a day off not having to do a thing.  I’d probably go nuts.

Hope all had a great weekend.

What a weekend!

2006-09-25T08:21:00.000-05:00

Life has been flying soaring.  It feels as if standing still will only make it get worse.  It is amazing that as kids we always feel that there is too much time and we didn’t have enough to do.  How ironic as we got older we were so anxious to have more to do that now that we have we wish we could have less.  That is life’s cycle.

The cheer coaching thing has finally evened out.  Although I have to tell you the organization I chose are so highly disorganized that a drunken monkey could do a better job at running things.  I have just come to accept that nobody knows what they are doing and are afraid to step up and find out.  It drives me crazy for the little while and then I realize this is just one season and I only have another month left.  Besides, the oldest rug-rat loves it.  And I love football, even if it is little guys.  It is way too hard at TheMark to get someone to watch football with me.  What a bummer.  I have gotten used to it and now have no idea what is going on in the football world.

So between coaching, helping at school, and running the home front……..I need a break.  I got a brief one this weekend.  My best friend from grade school was in town and we hung out Friday night.  It was awesome catching up and laughing about old times.  She now lives back in Jersey and I very rarely get to see her.  She is a sweet person.  It is a shame she still doesn’t live here.  TheMark was filled with its usual crowd Friday night, so I wasn’t surprised to come back and see the place still rockin’.    They were very glad to see me walk in……dealer.  Of course, I accommodated.  Thank you boys for showing appreciation for the fine dealing I provided.  It was a nice night.  You are always welcome…..great bunch of guys. Saturday wasn’t much of anything.  We were lazy and it felt good.  The rug-rats tore up the house and we let them.  They were kind enough to clean most of it up before we agreed to take them to the mall.  TheMark was in rare form.  He allowed each of us to pick our favorite store and purchased something for each of us.  It was like Christmas came early.  Except on this Saturday the shopping gods were against me.  The oldest rug-rat bought clothes at Limited,too.  The youngest rug-rat picked a bear from Build-A-Bear-Workshop.  And I couldn’t finalize a damn thing, even after several stores.  It was sad.  I had him right were I wanted him and couldn’t go in for the close.  Just couldn’t find anything.  It was getting so bad that he even asked if I wanted to go into the Coach store.  I told him he didn’t bring enough of his bankroll for that store.  TheMark isn’t as up to date with pricing as one might think.   He just doesn’t know what things cost so it surprised him when I told him he needed like $500 to even get a wallet from that store…..

When we came home the rug-rats were spent and went to bed so easily.  I was depressed and needed a cup of relaxing tea after letting him get of the hook so easily.

Sunday was much of the same easiness.  Except, I did go back to the mall and get a leather jacket I eyed the day before but didn’t purchase.  We shall see if that stays in the closet or not.

All in all it was a nice, relaxing weekend.  Now, that it is Monday, we are back to reality and back to work.  This poses a busy week for us but I am looking forward to next weekend……..Lake Keowee….here we come!

Load up the Scouts. We are going camping.

2006-09-20T07:31:00.000-05:00

Attention fellow bloggers we are loaded up the hoopty and heading to the mountains for so D&R (drunken relaxation). I attached the above link in case anyone would like to find out more about our adventure. I am anticipating a very enjoyable weekend. I hope to meet a lot of new faces and enjoy some I already see frequently.

If you can make it you should go. I hear it is a blast!

Poker in the News

2006-09-14T09:43:00.000-05:00

Hope the link works. Here is an update on some Poker news in our local area. Some of you are familiar with this but others may find this topic interesting. You should check it out. It is a short article on a poker "bust" from last year.

More on what's been going on as it progresses.

2006-09-08T08:13:00.000-05:00

Ra Ra:
Now, down to the real reasons I haven’t gotten on this thing in 3 weeks. The oldest rug-rat started first grade. Between the meetings and calming her drama’s that include what to wear and getting up to school on time, I have my hands full. I was foolish enough to add to our recent activity, cheerleading. My initial feelings were good. I thought that it would be good for her to get out there, besides she is loud like her momma. I would help out a little, no big deal. Well, I was wrong. After signing up, they needed a coach AND of course I got the job. Cause that is what I do. I volunteered for a “termite” cheer team. There games would be on Saturday and one practice per week. What I ended up with after much confusion is coaching girls aging from 4 – 10 on a “Migett” team that plays games during the week and which most start at 8pm. Now you have to understand my oldest needs her sleep and will fight it with all she has SO these late games will be bad news for us. What bothers me the most, is that I wasn’t given an opportunity to decide if we wanted to continue given the late time. So, I plug on. We had our first game yesterday and the football team lost. BUMMER! My girls did great.
I made this decorated piece of PVC piping, filled the inside with candy, capped the ends, and called it a spirit stick. Each girl will have a shot at getting this thing to take home at each practice/game. They got into it. So I think I will stick with it.

Let the Good Times Roll:
On top of school, and cheering, I am on a bowling league on Tuesday mornings. I was nominated as secretary. Little did I know what to expect or what would come. Of course, I say: “Sure, I’d be happy to”. Well, I am not happy to now. There are a few people making a big deal about a decision I made that is causing a big issue. Next time we meet I have to address the team captains and officers to iron all this out now. But, I spent 2 days on the phone with women who say: “Whatever you decide, we will support you.” Then go behind my back to undo what I have put in place. It just goes to show as we age we don’t change. People can be just as caddy and two faced at 60. Oh well, if they don’t like how I am doing things they can nominate someone else. It would be a big load of my back.

Poker:
Had a great time at Blood’s tourney thing. I didn’t fare so well. I made a few key mistakes by not calling with the best hand that it cost me my first round. The second round I just wasn’t getting anything to play with. The third round I got sucked out on so that was the end. Oh well, TheMark took all three of his rounds down like the champ he is. I had a major brain fart and forgot how great he is at short handed games. But on the final day he ran into some bad luck and was knocked out early. So sad.

When TheMark has games, I have been dealing when I can. I enjoy doing it. I can really see some action. My interest level is like a wave when it comes to getting into each hand but overall, I really enjoy doing it. When I deal, I accept tokens of appreciation and for the most part everyone appreciates me doing it. There are however some that feel my services warrant very little recognition. I am not sure I understand why. If they were in Vegas, AC, or any type of casino they would no doubt, in some form, show their appreciation for winning a big pot, getting away with a huge bluff, or winning big at the end of the night. So, why is it different at TheMark. I read about games that take a rake, not done at TheMark. They are ok with a raked game but not with recognizing a dealer. It is because it cuts into your profit? Is it because it is me? Is it because they are just cheap? Who knows. Don’t get me wrong. I understand when you are not winning you are unable to show appreciation BUT those that are scoping up the chips should.

There is one thing that irritates me even more that not compensating me for dealing until 3 AM and that is rudeness. Especially, when it is in MY place.
There is a person that has played at TheMark and fits into this example perfectly. And without him I would have never thought I would have been on the receiving end in my own home. It isn’t what he says that gets under my skin but HOW he says it that surprises me for a man of his age. I am not sure how old he is but I would imagine he is about 45ish. He is in a profession of some stature. Perhaps that has some affect, but doubtful. He is one of the few that doesn’t agree with showing proper appreciation but that aside his mannerism are off. If I went to someone else’s house, I would be gracious to the host. I don’t want to go into too many specifics due to preserving identity BUT either my dealing days will be shortened or more likely his invitation may get lost in the mail.

Thought of the day:
Rude people suck.

Venetian

2006-08-17T08:39:00.000-05:00

Day @ the Venetian:

I had spent just about every day at the Rio and was getting a bit tired of the theme so when it was suggested to go somewhere else, I was happy. We headed for Caesar’s for lunch. After a very satisfying meal at the Augustus Grill we headed outside and decided to walk to the Venetian. TheMark thought it would be nice to get out and assured us it wasn’t far so TheRick and me happily obliged. As we were walking we realized TheMark wasn’t so sure where it was and how far it was from us. Although he did manage to get us there we are hot and tired when we got there. I love the atmosphere at the Venetian but of course, I am a chick, love Italian and love that romantic crap. We headed straight to the poker room.

There was a bit of a wait for the 1/2NL table so I signed on to be called and sat behind TheMark to watch the action at the 2/5NL table. It seemed like a good table but to be honest I was bored out of my mind and wandered a bit. There was a big game going on in the back room 4k/8k mixed with Doyle, Gus, Barry, Billy Baxter and a couple more that for some reason escapes me at the moment. (that’s what happens when I wait so long to blog) I stood at the doorway trying not to distract but desperately wanting to watch Gus play. I mean up close where I could actually see the action and here the banter. After seeing what the pros were going through at the Series, I wasn’t going to be labeled as an annoying fan. The Venetian was running a few sat. but I hadn’t been doing so well with them and wanted to sit for awhile to play for some cash. Finally, my name was called. I was seated at the front table behind the desk, next to an overly friendly man that oddly resembled a rat.

I realized that I was sitting next to the chattiest person I have ever met in poker. At times I don’t mind it but when I first sit down at a cash game I like to get a feel for the table and I can’t do that, plus play my cards, and be chatty with him all at the same time. Guess that is why I am not a pro yet, like Daniel. Anyway, Rat would not give in. First he tells me he is a movie producer, and then asks me if I am a model or actress. The first thing that popped into my brain is…..table change….if I have to listen to his mouth AND his horrible pick up lines …..I am outta here. But oddly it wasn’t a pick up line. He produces horror films. I am not a fan of horror flicks. The conversation was nothing I was interested in and that made it worse. It reminded me of a fly buzzing around my ear. I was hanging around for a while win a little lose a little. I was down about half my buy in when I flopped a set to bring me to a small profit. There was a father & son at the table, ironically a producer as well (horror) but somehow the conversation was better. You could tell this guy, Producer, was a real one. Rat was just trying too hard but the two of them were like two school girls chatting away. I was just happy Rat took his attention off of me and onto someone else. He really was harmless but I just wasn’t in the mood. It had gotten so bad that I had gotten a migraine from all hi talking ……… my solution …… hot chocolate w/mint liquor. After the 2 one my headache felt better. Not sure why, but Rat would tell me if I wanted to know. He tried to explain EVERYTHING to EVERYBODY.

I was down a bit and looked at QQ. I was in middle position so I made it $15. I wasn’t comfortable playing them because my premium hands were not holding up. My experience at the Series has been to get sucked out on. I wasn’t sure I even wanted a caller. Just wanted to be able to say I won with my QQ’s. But I got re-raised, guy went all in. I had to get a count and think. It was like $50 more to me a nice pot sized bet. I hadn’t gotten involved in many pots with this guy so I wasn’t sure what he had but finally put him on AK. The guys at the other end of the table were younger and for some reason at times seemed to be gunning for me. I was a dog when we flipped our cards. He had KK. I mumbled: “I am never playing QQ again”. I was so frustrated about previous suck outs. The dealer deals the flop Qxx. The turn was a blank. The river gave me the case Q. The guy stormed off so pissed his KK got cracked and to be honest I know how it feels. Somehow it feels a bit worse with pocket pairs that aren’t so high but in any case, I felt great, even let out a little yell in TheMark’s direction and promised myself to get over those bad beats more quickly.

That’s poker!

Next topic: Final Thoughts of WSOP 2006

W.S.O.P.

2006-08-14T14:09:00.000-05:00

WSOP Bikini Style:

So here’s the deal. It is the day after the ladies event and I am a bit depressed and looking for some excitement after all I am in Vegas. This shouldn’t be too hard to find. I knew I wasn’t in the mind frame for more poker and besides, TheMark was entered into the 1k event. I wanted to support him just like he did me the previous day. I walked around with him for a bit and realized there wasn’t much for me to do. Then it hit me…..hello…go to the pool…. relax…..have a tropically blended something …. And chill! So that is what I did. In the outdoor gift shop I bought a H2O, some much needed sunscreen, and a cute little black bikini that had rhinestone butterflies strategically placed. Way too cute to pass up. Off to the Ladies room to change. There were several areas to enjoy but I decided on the pool with a sandy beach. There were families w/ their kids, some sun bathers and a cool cave like structure. I laid my towel across the lounge chair and was ready to relax. Next came the sunscreen, burning was a definite in 100 + degree weather. There weren’t any cute pool boys around to lather me up so I had to fend for myself….aawww.

After sitting in the sun for what felt like an hour but was more like 20 minutes, I realized it was too hot to just get a tan I needed to be in the cool water. I stepped onto the sand to let it run through my toes and almost burnt my pinky toe off. Now I had to come up with a plan to get from my lounge chair to the water without burning the crap out of my feet. I still wanted to look cool in my shades and new bikini so I couldn’t just run to the water. I would have to plan this out a bit. Finally, it came to me. There was a tree about half way between my chair and the ice cold pool and I knew this was a perfect place to rest before continuing on. I put on my sandals and proceeded to walk. As I got about half way there I realized my feet were burning so I started to walk faster but the faster I walked the more hot sand got trapped into my sandals and continued to burn the crap out of my feet. When I got to the shaded tree, I quickly took off my sandals and regrouped. I knew I had two choices: make a run for it OR just let my feet burn for a few more seconds. I chose the latter and spent and additional 15 minutes with my feet soaking in the pool to ice them down. After all that I worked up an appetite for one of those tropically blended something’s but atlas again no pool boys to be spotted, not even a hot pool chick…….so back in the sand I went.

Ironically, this time it wasn’t has hot. Perhaps it was the ice cold water from the pool or perhaps it was the frozen drink that was preoccupying my thoughts. Who knows ….who cares…..but I landed myself at the outdoor bar and was happy to be there. The bartender was more than happy to give me his signature drink which was a mix between a pina colada and a strawberry daiquiri. It wasn’t bad but it wasn’t fabulous. At this point I wasn’t going back into the sand or the pool so the frozen concoction tasted great. I was surprised however to be asked for my i.d. Don’t get me wrong, I am happy to be 30 and still get carded. The look on his face was like ….. ain’t no way….and that feels great! To his defense I looked a little like a tart. I had my shortest of shorts on with my butterfly string top and my hair in two braids so I guess I looked the cute school girl part. Well, he hooked me up good. This drink was like 40 oz., ok maybe not that big but it was huge. I had gotten at least a dozen brain freezes trying to finish it before it would melt and so I thought it was time to check in with TheMark. It had been a few hours and I had enough of the heat.

So I head to the big room to find TheMark. Little did I know the kind of attention I would have received from my new outfit but I quickly realized I could help TheMark in his tournament in more ways than he could have helped me in mine. As I confidently made my way from the pool to the WSOP room, I was ready to have some fun with this. I could have stood in front of Bodog, Absolute Poker, PokerStars, Full Tilt, or even the Milwaukee’ Best booths and given their girls a run for their money. Now was my opportunity to help someone close to me and I was going for it. Luckily, TheMark drew to a table that was right on the rail. How perfect is this. TheMark and I have played at the same tables together at previous trips to Vegas and role played a bit like we didn’t know each other. It is fun and it keeps others guessing. So, I knew if I just stood there for a bit he would come up with some cute comment. I can’t remember what is was but it induced a conversation between us and drew more attention to me which might be have been helpful to him if someone is stupid enough to let something like a good looking women get in the way of their poker playing. And believe me there are plenty of men out there like that.

Side note: #1 Rule at cash Table’s ladies: wear a revealing outfit. Now, I know some women have a problem with this but they shouldn’t. Men play ever advantage they have so why shouldn’t a woman and ladies ours are much more powerful.

Ok so anyway, it was getting close to break time for TheMark so I hung around for an additional 20 minutes or so before heading up to the room to shower (which was ½ mile away). TheMark enjoyed the attention and hopefully it helped him to stay in a bit longer. He didn’t win it but we had fun playing around. One guy told me a pick up line I had never heard before and doubt I will again. He walking past and tapped me on the shoulder to say: “hey, did you get lost on your way to the pool”. Then he winked as if that line would work and I would say as a matter of fact I did and I was hoping you could show me the way. What a dingle berry.! We all had a nice laugh at his expense.

Unfortunately, there aren’t any pics to post regarding this story…..sorry guys…lol …. But there are a few fellow Blogger’s that were there that can confirm the authenticity of my story.

Next topic: Day @ The Venetian

2006-08-14T12:55:00.000-05:00

Me @ the Ladies Event having fun.

Me w/ my buddy John Phan...very cool guy...

2006-08-13T10:19:00.000-05:00

WSOP Ladies Event

2006-08-13T10:08:00.000-05:00

I can’t believe the date I last blogged. I am positive any audience I once had has given up on any future entries but I will blog-on anyway. So, where do I pick up…..

WSOP Ladies Event:

I had been playing a few satellites to win my seat into the Ladies Event but that didn’t go my way. So, I had to buy my way in. I was seated at one of the last tables. I was very nervous. This was the largest event I had ever played in. There were over 1100 women entered with a prize pool over 1 million for the first time ever. There weren’t a lot of people I recognized. Fortunately, I sat at the same table with one of them. She was disguised with an army style hat and glasses but I saw right through it. She started her career in Soap Industry: Santa Barbara & Another World, and continued with multiple movies, but very publicly noted as Ellen D’s girlfriend for about 18 months. Not too sure what Ellen did or didn’t do but Anne Heche wasn’t sticking around and went back to men. Actually, she found happiness and married not too long afterward. I noticed her at my table and knew exactly who she was. We had a brief introduction but then it was all about poker.

She seemed to be a very serious player. I was involved in a pot with her and took it down without showing the nuts. I was playing some really good poker. One thing I picked up on very quickly at the tables I played is that women don’t mess around too much. The ladies I played with pushed with pocket pairs 99% of the time. I had been playing for about 5 hours when I decided to loosen up and call a min raise with Q3o. I was in the big blind. The flop came Qxx. I hit my Q but had kicker problems. I made a pot sized bet and the other lady took a minute but called. There weren’t any flush draws or straight draws so I knew she had a Q and I was definitely out kicked. I knew right there the only way I was going to win this pot was to make a serious bluff. The turn came a blank. I pushed all in and sweating it……… she thought for an eternity and then folded but not before SHOWING her QJ. An older lady at the other end of the table made some kind of comment about laying it down and they all asked me to show my cards but I did not. I have no idea what she put me on but I don’t care. I needed a drink after that one.

I was looking great at this point. I had played a few flops but when I missed quickly got away from it. I was feeling tense and had a massage at the table which was incredible and highly recommend everyone do it. It allowed me to focus so much better. I am into the 6th hour of play and about 450 players left. I made it more than half way. I was waiting for a good hand to double up with. It took a little while but found a good one. I look down to pocket Q’s. I raised 4 times the big blind. I wasn’t going to fool around with it. The older lady down at the end thought for awhile and then re-raised me all in. I thought about what she would do that with and the only conclusion was a pocket pair but could she have K’s or A’s? So, I thought……then finally said xxck it I am going for it. I called. She had me covered but when she flipped over 10’s, I was somewhat happy. The flop came xx10, and I went from favorite to underdog as fast as lightening. I didn’t improve and was knocked out. I was curios as to how deep I had made it. According to Card Players last count 20 minutes before I was eliminated there were about 420 players.

I wouldn’t change a single thing except perhaps the 10 high flop. I look at it this way, I will never know if I would have gotten away from that hand anyway so I would rather go out in that fashion than be out played.
Would I do it again?
Every chance I can get but I wouldn’t be as nervous next time.

Next topic: WSOP Bikini Style

Pics are in!

2006-07-24T20:40:00.000-05:00

Just a few of the MANY faces at the WSOP. Amazingly, most are just regular people who don't mind stopping for a photo. Their fame was immediate, continues to grow, yet they still enjoy the attention. I do recommend using caution. Have a little sympathy for them and ask for photo opps at a good time not when they are in line for a piss or after they just get knocked out. Let them refuel. I saw so many people asking when they were trying to rush somewhere during their break. That could get annoying. I didn't have any problem getting a photo with anyone....Although there were a few that I missed....But there is always next time. For now I will settle for the one's I have and place them gracefully on the wall @ TheMark.

Blogger Tourney

2006-07-16T09:57:00.000-05:00

Blogger’s Tourney @ Caesar’s Palace:

It was Saturday around 10AM and after getting only 4 hours sleep I was a bit sluggish. TheMark and I found our rental and drove to the front of Rio to pick up Double A’s. We were heading to the Blogger Tournament @ Caesar’s Palace. TheMark had participated last year but this was my first. I was kind excited about the fierce competition.

We got there and were received by an extremely long registration line. Apparently, Caesar’s had changed their cards and of course everyone had to have one in order to play in the tourney. We had gotten one back in Feb. when we were out there for the Super Bowl and already changes were made. So much for any comps?!! A big thanks to Poker Princess for taking everyone’s id and creating cards for them while we heard speeches from several people. I was most interested in what Howard Lederer had to say about online gambling. As an update, the house passed a bill to ban online gaming. It now has to be passed through the Senate. Let’s pray that never happens. Most importantly are our rights as Americans, even for those who aren’t poker players. Howard made several valid points that I wish were able to be made mainstream somehow. The best way may be our mouths. I will be discussing this topic with as many people as possible.

Let’s get back to the tourney. There was a very cool Roshambo competition just before starting the main event. I am proud to announce TheMark finished in 2nd place. You should have seen his skills they were unbelievable. I on the other hand went out in the first round. When it comes to blind luck, I suck. The tourney got started not too long after that. I sat a very cool table where we saw a nut flush get beaten by a straight flush. That was heart breaking but I guess it happens. I got a small rush of cards and ran with it. I had built up a nice little stack. Unfortunately, I ran into a hand that was second best and couldn’t get away from it. After taking a chunk of my stack, I couldn’t recover. I had lasted longer than TheMark so all is well. I do have to apologize to EvaCan’tHang. She was so gracious. I was sitting to her right and a couple of times didn’t give her the action she wanted. For example, she got pocket rockets and I folded my blind to her. Another time I raised and she had to lay down the hammer. The final straw was when my sober ass split a Corona all over her jeans. Poor thing. She was so very cool about it. She could have easily knocked me out and taken my chips. Oh, crap. I think I just gave her an idea for next year. Over all, it was fun and I had a great time. Pauly owes me royalties for the number of hits his site has received. He has a great picture of me on there and mentioned it has gotten more hits than anything else. Show me the money, hon. After I busted out we headed back to the Rio for some satellites and a little more practice. I play in the Ladies event tomorrow. I am so excited I can’t sleep.

Next topic: WSOP Ladies Event.

2006-07-15T21:01:00.000-05:00

WSOP Satellites:

Shortly after TheMark and I arrived in Vegas we headed down to see the WSOP action. It is the largest conference converted into a poker room I have ever seen. There were a couple hundred of tables with several sections for different areas of play. The back left quadrant was running single table satellites at all entry levels. The back right quadrant was mainly used for super satellites and WSOP events. The front right quadrant was used for WSOP events and included a section for the final table tapings, ESPN crew, and a few bleachers for an audience. The front left quadrant was the cash action took place. $2/5 NL was the cheapest seat but the real action was $400/800 mixed. You name they were there playing. I will include names and pics in a future WSOP recap.

So I decided to get down to business and play a satellite. I play this style online often and have success. I played so well. I was getting good cards, making great reads, and laying down before it got expensive. It got down to four of us. I became the chip leader after I doubled up through an Asian guy’s all in. I made the right call and he doubled me up. At that point I was in the lead with Asian not too far behind and two short stacks waiting to go out. I obtained a lot of respect from Mr. Asian when I made that call. From that point on he stayed out of my pots. I had 4 bad beats in a row to get knocked out in 4th. I couldn’t believe it. I had AJs and called an all in bet from a short stack that had A9o. She rivered her 9. (nice 2 outer) The other short stack I doubled up twice when he hit his 5 outer and then runner, runner, runner for the flush he didn’t know he had. The dealer didn’t pick up on it either but the guy’s friend noticed before the dealer pushed the chips my way and I was knocked out shortly after. It was one of those moments that I knew I played it perfectly and wouldn’t change a thing yet still didn’t work out my way. Go figure. At that very brief moment I knew what Hellmuth’s whining was all about and I pouted for a bit. Ok more than a bit. But I could taste the victory. I all but had my Ladies Event entry paid for by my first satellite. Easy come easy go.

Next topic: Blogger’s tourney at Caesar’s Palace.

So what's your excuse!

2006-07-14T20:48:00.000-05:00

I have one big one. W.S.O.P!

I got back a couple of days ago and had a blast. So much not to tell so little time. lol. I have a ton of pics but will have to post first of the week. TheMark still has the camera out in Vegas. It was wall to wall pros at the Rio. Insane. More to report on that later. I offered my brilliance to Russ (CFO) at Absolute Poker, not sure he was listening but it would benefit the site tremendously. He did ask what I was doing about it, so perhaps I may join Otis on a reporters side. lol

More to come:
WSOP satellites
WSOP Ladies event
Day @ the Venetian
WSOP Bikini style

Party! Party! Party!

2006-07-03T09:29:00.000-05:00

Where to begin. My mind is still racing from yesterday's events. What a blast. It actually began a few days ago. Anyone who has hosted a party for over 40 people can tell you there is much prep work to be done. On a daily basis your house just isn't ready for such craziness. So I primped and prepped and for a couple of days prior including yard work and gathering enough chairs for everyone to sit on.

The day of the event has arrived and I am so ready to have a good time. The poker started at 3pm ish with 25 players. This was part of the BadBlood invitational series. I hit one big pot early and good thing since I went card dead for over an hour. That is the true test of a poker player being able to ride the wave of deadness. I tried to limp a few times with my 84o and similar hands but nothing improved my hand. As I sat there using my time wisely, I realized I wouldn't have hit a single flop in that dead period. Usually you hit something here or there but not me.....Nothing. But as the field dropped like flies, I was just hanging around. After making the final table I had a couple of hands that were questionable to call with, Q10, K9,J10. With G-Rob at the table too, I didn't feel comfortable making a move without something a bit better. G-Rob bet 5k, I pushed for only 1200 more w/ A10 suited. G-Rob had pocket 5's. Needless to say, I didn't get any help and was knocked out in 4th placed. The tourney paid 4 places so I was pleased. By the time I was knocked out of the tourney 3/4 of my guests had arrived and began eating. A big thanks to Chris T., Shep, TeamScott, Mrs. Blood and Ginger for all their help getting the food cooked and out for all to enjoy. I couldn't have played poker and gotten all the food out without the help of everyone.

After dinner, we all went in the front yard for the best home fireworks show in SC. It went on for 20 minutes. I am so glad everyone had a great time. That is the only thing a host can really ask for. With so many people, I didn't get a chance to talk with people as long as I would have liked but I think I was able to get to everyone for at least a few minutes. Now that it is all over, I will clean up for my parents' arrival on Wed. and pack for Vegas baby!

More on Vegas later.....but for now....I need a nap!

Getting back to reality

2006-06-26T19:23:00.000-05:00

It has been awhile since I have played poker regularly. For some reason I am on "life interrupted" mode. With the end of school, passing of my grandmother, and getting back home, it has been a real struggle to fit anything else in. I am hoping things will slow down and I can get back on track with a few things I have been neglecting.

???????

I think part the slow down has to do with our Friday tourney coming to a halt. It seems during the summer it is harder to find regular players. Perhaps it is the weather calling people out or even the wives putting there foot down. Either way it forces me to feed my need online. I am not fond of the online play too much. I did try a heads up match today on AP. It lasted all of 2 minutes and I won. Imagine that. So I think Iwill try another to see how well I play.

?????????????????

I am gearing up for the WSOP and am heading out around the 7th. I am working on a few contacts to get sponsored for the ladies event. I am hopeful. Last year there were over 600 ladies. It should be a great turn out this year with at least 1000. I am so excited to play and to out there at such an exciting time. I remember when I went out for the UPC @ The Plaza last year and what hype. I was in my element to be with a large number of pros that I admire and learn from. It was an awesome feeling. This time I am sure will be the same. I would love a sit down with Ted Forrest, Daniel, Jen, David Williams, Antonio, or any of my favorites to chat poker. Perhaps I can get that heads up match w/ John Phan that he promised that time. We'll see. Hey in Vegas ya never know what will happen. I would love a job where I could travel and interview all the players. I am sure it would have a down side but I love talking to people and learning from them and more about who they really are. Well, perhaps someday. For now, I will just practice a bit each day so my game doesn't get rusty and who knows maybe I will be the next Ladies Champion.....

How kind

2006-06-21T08:33:00.000-05:00

Now that I am back home I would like to thanks those of you who offered your sympathy at a very hard time for me. I greatly appreciate the kind thoughts. It is comforting to know that just a simple phone call or e-mail can give me a lift when I am feeling down. My trip to Jersey this time was bitter sweet. The days after the funeral, I was able to spend some quality time with my family and even squeezed in a couple of tourneys. Girls vs. Guys.....got down to me and Dad heads up. Unfortunately, I got the short end of the stick.....
For Father's Day, Mark, my brother in law, myself, and 6 nephews finished this huge deck my dad was doing with my nephew. It took us about 6 hours but it was fun, as much fun s working on a deck can be. It was so great to have everyone doing something and it almost brought Dad to tears.
I had my Jersey pizza fix and it was good. No A.C. trip this time. Just didn't have the time and under the circumstances it was too draining. I really feel badly for my mom. She is the one left to go through her mom's things all by herself. Just wish there was something I could do to help her with that. She had to bury her brother, then her father, now her mother. What an awful feeling to be the only one left in your family. I would hate to be in her situation right now. She is a strong woman and I know she will get through this and anything else life throws at her. And I will be there along the way.

Well, on a poker note. I played in the golf course tourney two Sunday's ago. I morning I found out my g-ma passed. I was getting excellent cards and making some good lay downs. Very happy with my game. There really isn't anything I would have done differently. There were two key pots. First was with QQ. A solid player made a standard raise. I reraised. He thought for a minute and pushed. I thought about what he could have and just didn't think he had my pair beat. So I called. I thought he might have had AK. He had QQ. Split pot. I was happy with the result. I think an A would have come on the flop. I am not sure if I would have been able to lay it down anyway but I'd rather spilt than be in that situation.
The second hand, involved Otis. He was sitting to my right and came in for a raise totaling 25. I made it 75 holding AA. He thinks for a minute and pushes. I insta-call. He has KK. Sulking as usually he said he thought I had either AA or QQ. Fortunately, for him he cracked my AA w/ a K on the river. So, he finally got me. He knocked me out of a tourney after 2 years and he had to get lucky to do it. No hard feelings, O! If I had to donate to someone besides Mark, you were the only one there I want to give them to.....lol

Passing

2006-06-13T22:02:00.000-05:00

I called my mom on Sunday morning and received some very bad news. My grandmother had died 30 minutes earlier. My parents have been taking care of her for about 5 years now. The strangest thing is she was in perfect health. She wasn't taking any medication or had any ailments. She was 95 and I know she lived a VERY full life but it is STILL a shock when someone passes on and you never expected it. My daughter told me a couple of months ago "Oma is going to die". I reassured her that wouldn't happen since Oma had just been to the doctor and she was in perfect health. Needless to say when mini mark heard the news she immediately told me " I told you she would die". I know it is just a weird twist of fate but it still gave me the creeps. My grandmother was a great lady and I will miss her tremendously. I am traveling to Jersey for the funeral on Fri. Unfortunately there won't be any time to side step to AC for a little felt. But that is O.K., the Ladies Event @ the WSOP has my name written all over it.

Hair

2006-06-02T06:50:00.000-05:00

I was forced to watch celebrity poker last night while cooking dinner and can't believe Phil Hellmuth was hosting it. Did you see his hair? He has got to do something with that mop. He is like the Trump of Poker, without the respect. I think G-Rob better watch out Phil might give him a run for his money, if he ever gets a proper cut.

Poker is Everywhere!

2006-06-01T11:00:00.000-05:00

We all are well aware of the global outbreak known as poker. Eventhough I am fully aware of how popular it is today, thanks to TV, it still amazes me when it creeps into everyday life.

I have been in the market for a new car for the past month or so. I have a perfectly well run machine that works fine for my family now but I am a bit selfish and want that new car smell. But for me a new car is an overwhelming decision. So I wanted to do my homework and decided to looked inside the SUV line of every dealership in Greenville. It was a big task but still felt it necessary when purchasing a vehicle for me and my girls. I will give you some of the contenders in a moment just for s**t* and giggles but first I will get to the point of my blog.

I went to a dealership on Laurens Rd. (keeping names to myself for obvious reasons & still haven't closed on a deal! lol) The gentleman there was very helpful and gave me some excellent information on a new model coming to the market this month. It is a cool looking cross over vehicle. Anyway, when I was getting ready to leave I mentioned something about poker and immediately he perked up. We spent an additional 10 minutes talking about online play, G-Vegas, and various poker stats. He is a huge poker fan/player. I find it so amazing that poker has made it's way into everyday life and continues to be so popular. I know I like it but it is one of those things I imagined might blow over by now. To the contrary, it just keeps growing. What an awesome feeling it must be for all of the people who have been playing for decades to see the popularity soar like this. Doyle Brunson, Johnny Chan, and a long list of others should be proud of themselves for hanging through the tough times in order to get such public recognition now for their daily grinds of yester year.

My contenders:
Mercedes GL, Chevy Tahoe, Chevy Equinox, & Mazda CX6

I am not sure of which I will go with but I am leaning toward a down size for the next couple of years. Any advise or suggestions, I'd love the input.

Best Place in Town

2006-05-28T18:12:00.000-05:00

Lately, life has swallowed me whole. It seems every second I free up something else comes along that takes two seconds more of my time. I have put some things on the back burner because of it. (Arbonne) Still, I have made time for some luxuries and one in particular is a shame not to share. I am talking about the best place in town to grab a fabulous dinner, great lounge, and excellent atmosphere: restaurant O on Main Street in Greenville, SC.

I have dined there many a times and will recommend various items that I have personally experienced to much liking. For example, those who want to have a simple evening out can sit at the bar and order anything off the menu while conversing w/ staff and enjoying the evening. I experienced that one night and the wine manager gave me a private wine tasting. The Chef came out to explain something with the raw oysters which are to die for. Just by taking a moment to get to know some of the staff I was able to get insight on what they have to offer as well as receive excellent service in return. I felt pampered. If you are looking for something more intimate you can dine in the main restaurant or on the outdoor patio. I have done both and prefer the patio on a nice night. There aren't too many tables and it is a great place for people watching. Upstairs they have a great lounge filled with oversized chairs and seating islands. It is very cool and chic. Great place to hang out and have drinks.

Now let's get to the menu. Everything we have tried has been unbelievably good. For starters, the crab soup, calamari, and raw oysters are our favorite appetizer. If you try the raw oysters ask them what type they are. The best are the one's from the west coast near Canada. They are called Boshalay oysters, small but the best I have ever tasted. (not sure if I got the spelling right). The ceasar's salad is an excellent chose for greenery. On to the main course, I have to include the flat iron steak, crab cakes (very thick), and of course the best in town filet. The sides include wasabi mashed potatoes, green beans, asparagus, and an excellent macaroni and cheese. For dessert we always get a scoop of Southern Comfort ice cream. Yes, soco fans ...... they have it! The best part of the menu is at times the Chef has a "tasting menu". This is a three course meal. You choose from 3 appetizers, 3 entrees, and 3 desserts. The entrees we have tried have come with the wasabi mashed potatoes and some asparagus. It is some excellent food and great atmosphere. I heard they recently changed their menu so I am not sure if all the items I have spoken about are still available but if they are you need to get your butt down there and try it.
If you go, invite me...

2006-05-24T19:59:00.000-05:00

I have registered to play in the PokerStars World Blogger Championship of Online Poker!

This Online Poker Tournament is a No Limit Texas Holdem event exclusive to Bloggers.

Registration code: 7330476

Goodbye LPN

2006-05-10T19:35:00.000-05:00

Ladies Poker Night has come to an end. It seems there are not enough interest in G-Vegas to warrant a monthly game. How sad for the few of us who really enjoy playing with other ladies. Oh well. I think perhaps after a temporary break we can recruit new blood into a LPN. Until then..... I will play with the Boys!

Blood's B-day

2006-04-23T16:22:00.000-05:00

After waiting on the sitter to arrive I rushed over to the Blood's for the B-day Bash. I was all out of sorts. For some unknown reason I was hotter than hell. I mean, I just couldn't get comfortable and practically sweating. I only had one glass of wine and it took me all night to drink it due to my body temperature. Uncle Ted mentioned some phrase, I can't remember now, that he admitted was about menopause. Surely not at 30?! In ant case, I wasn't all that happy about being uncomfortable. I made it to the condensed table and was playing very well. Otis was pushing around some pots and sucking out a lot. A critical hand for me was against him. Blinds are 15/30. I pop it up to 100. He reraises all in. I insta call w/ AKo, he had A6d. Understand, I would sometimes think twice about such a call but not when this was like the 20th time he had made that same move and a few times on me so I knew I had him beat. The flop was xAx, with one diamond. I was pretty confident I'd win. Turn came a diamond. River a diamond. And he sucked again. I had him covered but it still crushed my stack. Bad luck #1

Bad Luck #2:
KJs vs. Tommy's Q6d = Tommy drawing to a flush as well.

No luck w/ calling with the best hand. I did however make a very good call against Wolverine. I had top pair top kicker when he reraised my bet a bunch. I went into a mini-tank and called with the winner. I was upset when I left not just because others got lucky and I lost but I also had a hefty bill to pay when I got home to meet the sitter. As much as I hate to lose, I hate losing and paying a sitter. Especially when by most accounts I would have won and knocked out 2 people. That's poker!
I can assure you there will only be a few choice moments that I will pay for a sitter to play poker again.
Overall, it was good time and I have no idea what was up with my body temp. but rest assure I am back to normal today. Who knows maybe it was pre-pre-pre-one-night-only menopause??

Friday @ TheMark

2006-04-22T16:46:00.000-05:00

Had a great turn out lastnight. There were some new faces and some very familiar ones, too. All in all, 15 of us battled it out looking for a win. Top 3 paid. It seemed most were playing a bit conservative because it lasted 5 hours or just getting a lot of ups and downs. I made some critical plays to avoid elimination. One bad situation I got myself into was against a guy who called my standard preflop raise. I had KQo. The board was as follows: A3AKrag. I knew this guy was a tight aggressive player but for some reason I thought I had him beat. Unfortunately for me, he had pocket rockets. He played it flawlessly. I didn't see it coming. I guess every now and again we all have to donk off our chips into the nuts. The was my only mistake, luckily I had him covered. Needless to say, I came back with a revegence to win it. I had more chips than the 2nd place player but I suggested a chop as soon as he knocked out the 3rd placed person because we had been going for a long time and 1AM was late enough. I was still happy with the payout.

I finally went to bed around 3AM. I am pretty tired today but can't let that stop me. I am off the celebrate BadBlood's B-day tonight!

Long time no blog!

2006-04-20T09:51:00.000-05:00

I am a complete slacker. I have a good reason. My family has decided to invaded our home on various days throughout the Spring Break and beyond. It is a welcomed invasion since I don't get to see them but once a year. I grew up in a very close family. We did everything together and were happy that way until I moved to SC and one of my older sister's moved to TN. Now, it seems the time we have together is never enough.

It is amazing how I have so much fun with each sibling differently. My eldest sister and her family are similar to my own. We are easy going, no need to plan much, and very comfortable with each other. I take it as a HUGE compliment when my 15 year old nephew actually WANTS to stay longer to visit. My bother and his family on the other hand are pretty active and early risers. Some are conversationalist and others are not, so it is a good mix in his family. My other sister in TN, is so busy with little ones I can feel her pain. She has a 5,3,1 year old. I mean it is crazy when she visits and the volume is unreal. I sympathize for my neighbors.

I grew up in New Jersey, as a product of my environment I can be loud at times and talk your ear off. Some people may think that is a bad trait and to be honest at times it is a hurdle I need to overcome. For the most part though, I enjoy the fact that I am comfortable starting a conversation with just about anyone because it shows a side of my personality that I consider an attribute. I have learned over the past six years or so to try and curb that side of me around people I know find it aggressive or annoying. For example, I married into a family of "non-talkers". Most of the time I anticipate having to create conversation and occasionally I wait for others to start. I don't usually like doing that because my brain goes into a non-usable mental state that I can't describe. I mean the only thing I can think of is the weather. Usually, when I feel forced to converse I clam up and say nothing or talk about something very general. I will have to be honest and admit it isn't genuine it is based on a need to fill the void of silence. This is where living in NJ has come into play. When I lived there someone always filled to void, better yet there wasn't any silence. But it is a lot of pressure to HAVE to talk.
Some might say "Who cares what others think do what you want" but the truth is we all care what others think it is a part of us. There is a healthy and unhealthy way of filtering what others think of us and that may be a fine line at times. I care about other people so as a result I care what they think. Good, Bad, or Whatever that is a part of me and something I am not willing to change.

On a poker note:
Last Friday I played at TheMark and got knocked out of the tourney but hung around for the cash game. I made a nice chuck there. by biggest take home so far. Not talking about a lot here but this is coming from a person who usually skips the cash game and goes to bed or is dealing the game instead of playing in it. So, I was pretty happy about that. I think my game is coming around a bit.
My parents are in town visiting and lastnight we played a 4 handed tourney. At one point my dad mentioned at the end of a losing hand against TheMark that he was on a one card flush draw. Of course it wasn't possible for that hand so we all had a laugh. My parents are beginner hold em players. It was enjoyable to play and I can tell how far I have come in my own game.
See ya at the felt.

What a wonderful weekend

2006-04-10T10:52:00.000-05:00

My sister's family came in this weekend and since Friday was beautiful we went to Keowee for some fun in the sun. Unfortunately Friday was the only day for water fun. It was still cool to relax with some family that I haven't seen in a long time. My nephews are getting so big. I remember when they were babies and I was the designated sitter at 16. David hates hearing about that now. Can't blame him. I took the older two boys ona canoe ride. My arms are hurting from all that rowing. Yesterday, I was even crazier to get on a SeaDoo and fly around the freezing water just so they could have some fun. I think there were like 4 boats out on the entire lake and they weren't moving fast so not much jumping the wake. But I managed to stand it for about 45 minutes before my feet were frost bitten. You know it is cold when the water actually feels warm. They liked it so that is all the matters. I hate not seeing my family more often. I know if my sister's family lived closer we would get together all the time. We just click. It is great when that happens. I miss that so much. I feel family should be the closest people in your life but sometimes things get in the way of that. I have always enjoyed spending time with my family, now that is my in laws since my siblings are all out of state. The more time I spend with them doing just the silliest of things, the more I get to know who they really are and not just the person they have to be in there job or when with the kids, etc. I also extend this feeling toward my family of friends because some of them have grown to be as close to me as a brother or sister. Funny how life works that way. I just know that I will only get out of something what I put into it. So, I am trying to put best self forward.
Hope all have a great Spring Break. I know I will have to plan a few things for the rugrats without any school, they will be buggin' me. I mean loving me.....lol

Online Results

2006-04-03T21:24:00.000-05:00

Well, I played horrible in the heads up FFP tourney on Stars. Got paired up with another tight box so not only did I lose but I wasn't getting any action on my play and it was soooo boring.

I was real excited to play on the WPBT WSOP event. I was playing very well. Above mid pack. I knew I had to be careful and pick my spots. Unfortunately, I forgot what a luckbox's we had as bloggers. I call a preflop raise w/ 9 10 off in BB. It hit 2 pair on flop. I bet the pot. I get raised and then I push. Wasn't real worried about a call but thought he'd fold. He called w/ KK. The board rivers another 4. I am out in 69th place....something like that. So pissed. I knew I should have gone in with the worst hand. To make it even worse he told me he thought I had two pair before he called. If he thought I had 2 pair why would he call. Oh well, one day my suck out will come.

2006-04-03T15:23:00.000-05:00

I am registered for tonight's WPBT WSOP thingy. First time, maybe second, not even sure, playing with this group. I hope I do G-Vegas proud.

This weekend was pretty busy. Friday night we hit the lake house for a little TLC and celebrate a new boat launch w/ the in laws. (will be borrowing that for the summer) Saturday was off to Soby's for an evening of dining w/ some great friends, excellent wine, and a little entertainment. I had an awesome time. Sunday was the Shriners circus at Furman. It was over 3 hours long and included elephant & pony rides and a blow up slide. What a cool show for the rugrats. I was happy to see a good turn out. The Shriner's hospital helps so many with all these donations. It is amazing how far their money goes.

Besides, all of this I am starting my own business. It is with a company called Arbonne. For the past few months I have been trying several products and educating myself with the company from A to Z. All the people I have met are great and the financial's are outstanding. This is a very lucrative opportunity that I don't plan on letting pass me by. If there are any of you out there that know someone that might be interested in going into business for themselves OR want to know more about Arbonne or it's products, e-mail me at Arbonne333@aol.com. The website is also available: www.arbonne.com . I am wanting to expand my team into others states as well. Already, starting with Vegas....of course. Mexico, is next!

Donkey Results

2006-03-26T21:04:00.000-05:00

We had a great time Friday night. I am so glad we had a great turn out. There was much fun, laughter, and good old fashion card slinging. It took us a few extra minutes to get things going but once we started, we were all in it to win it.

Thanks to DebSmithinski for her cold subs, Shepinski for the wings, and everyone else for helping us unload a couple bottles of SoCo.
For those of you who had the misfortune of not being able to make it, you missed out on my now famous meatball subs. (made from scratch.) I wanted everyone to feel special on our special night.

Here are the results of the tourney:
1. Team Scott "Suckout" Smith
2. Otis
3. Mrs.Blood
4. AL
5. Wolverine
6. TheRick
7. PokerBtch/MsAlliN
8.Shepinski
9. AxeMan
10. Frank the Tank
11. JackHammer/DebSmithinski
12. TheMark
13. KevinM
14. Bad Blood
15. FFF
16. RonCox
17. RandyJ
18. GRank

See ya'll next year....at our next Annual Donkey Fest.

WPT

2006-03-23T19:22:00.000-05:00

The WPT Borgata Poker Open........starring PokerBtch.

It aired last night and I am sure it will repeat in the future. I make a great debut. Look closely or you might miss me. I am in the background behind David Singer. You see me within the first 20 minutes or so. Of course it is tivo'd and I will play it for all upon request. I can even supply copies for a fee.

Enough about my new fame.
Hope to see you @TheMark tomorrow night....

Donkey Fest

2006-03-21T21:21:00.000-05:00

Let the Donkey Fest begin.

This Friday @ TheMark. What a night this will be. Let me know if you want in.

Last Friday

2006-03-21T20:51:00.000-05:00

I took 1st and 225 last Friday night. I was card dead for about two hours playing a couple of hands here and there but mostly playing my gut. I was throwing away marginal hands and watching the action to follow. I saved myself from getting knocked out several times or at the very least diminishing my stack. I had thrown away many low pocket pairs. I tried a few times but wasn't getting anything on the flop so I made a decision just not to play them. Good choice because I would have donated a bunch of chips to various people. It was crucial to my tourney that I stay the course and it was hard. I was so bored. I should have been drinking but I bought these disgusting wine coolers that I couldn't stomach and no more vino in storage soooo I was out of luck. Regardless, my cards turned around when I realized I had to make a move at some point. Unfortunately for him, it was against TheMark. I called his 3x BB raise with A2s. I was going for the flush and thought I might be able to bet my way out of it if I missed. The flop came Kss . I checked. TheMark bet enough to put me all in. I called. Turn a blank. The river came a spade. Needless to say, his AK wasn't good. I actually felt bad for calling his standard raise. I hate playing A rag but at that point I knew I had to stab at something. A couple of hands later I cracked TheMark's KK when I hit an A on the flop with my AJ. From then on my game was back and I was getting the cards. I took a bunch of TheMark's chips. He went from chip leader to out in 4 hands. He later shared that he was playing uber tight. I guess it was just my time. The final battle was between Wolverine and myself. We were only a few hands into the heads up action when I pushed and won. The last hand I had AQ. The flop came 223 or 443 something like that. I made a 2000 bet and he came over the top of me for 3000 more but he only had 3000 left. I thought that was odd. I just didn't understand why he didn't want to commit the rest of the 3000. I knew he was going to do it after the turn....he was pot committed at this point. Earlier in the tourney, he had gotten me off hands by doing this same move. Problem is I knew he didn't hit this flop. Not with that preflop raise. So, I moved all in over the top. He thought and thought and then called. He had Q10.....and didn't improve. It felt good to finally win one on the home front. Although, I felt bad starting my run at the expense of TheMark. As hard as it may seem at times, I really am not out for blood....just 1st place.

Last week's action

2006-03-14T17:25:00.000-05:00

LPN was cancelled due to lack of attendance. We had some out sick and others with prior engagements. No biggie. Just pick up next month. However on Sunday, I got my fix. I played a live multi table tourney at a non-disclosed location. The entry was 150+20 and there were almost 70 people entered. I had placed 4th the last time I played with this group so I was psyched to do it again. I played fairly well considering the structure. We started with 150 and blinds were 1/2, doubling every 20 min. It was power poker at its best. I have gotten out of that kind of play for a bit, especially multi tabled. It went fast. I had to make some moves. Some plays faired well, some did not. Mostly I got blinded out waiting for a hand. The tables we played on were plastic folding tables with brand new cards, so the cards were flying, literally. It slowed everything down. I didn't care for it as much as the last time I played was 30 min. blinds and we had "real" tables. Hopefully, TheMark can suggest some things to the people running it so we can get better service for our 20 donation. When I realized how short stacked I was, I knew I had to make a move. I pushed in the big blind with KQc. There were two callers before me so I liked my odds. One guy called with A9. He hit his A but I had four to the flush after the flop. Needless to say, my hand didn't improve and I was knocked out in 21st place. They consolidated after that. Oh well. I would have liked either have a few more chips or longer blinds. The combo of the actual tables, new cards flying everywhere, starting chip stack, blind structure, and 20 donation.....makes me question whether I'll go back next time if it is going to be all of the same. Didn't leave a good lasting impression on this poker player.

Man, I am sorry

2006-03-08T11:11:00.000-05:00

I want to apologize to BadBlood, Rebuy, TheMark, TheRick, and the rest of the human race for speaking like an idiot. I have deleted my last post entitled " R.E.S.P.E.C.T.". I wrote that while "steaming" off a loss and it was unprofessional. I will do my best for it not to happen again. I tried to express my views on the respect, I as a woman, get at the poker table and didn't give the same respect I was seeking when posting my blog. For that I cannot apologize enough. We all have moments that we regret and that was one of mine. So to set the record straight, it doesn't matter what I believe or what has been presented as a table image to me, I will fight the inner "brat" and keep specifics to myself. Most importantly, I would like to apologize to TheRick. I came down hard on him in my blog by using one hand we were in together, as an example that should most definitely have been part of a larger demographic . Using him or anyone else, specifically, in a negative or perhaps hurtful manner in the blog was not right and will not happen again. He didn't deserve to be scrutinized so deeply for his play, attitude, and thoughts. To be honest, I have no idea what his thoughts are on these issues. It was just an opinion based on not enough information. Have any of you done that before? I can only hope that he will let it roll off his back and we can move forward. I understand now that I have nothing to prove to anyone but myself. So, it doesn't matter what other people do or don't do at the poker table. If I respect myself than that is all that I need to get through the ups and downs of hands, tournaments, and life in general.

Hair Results

2006-02-26T20:36:00.000-05:00

It is split. I had a tremendous response and appreciate all of the input. Thanks again, loyal readers.

Blond is Better?.... You tell me.

2006-02-23T18:57:00.000-05:00

Here are some blonde pics to think about.....

Brown - Light Brown

2006-02-23T17:26:00.000-05:00

Here are brown/light brown. Blond to come tonight (need to figure out how to put them on the puter)

Opinions Wanted

2006-02-22T18:01:00.000-05:00

By now most of you have seen my new blonder locks.....

I am taking a poll................ be honest........

PokerBtch better as Blond or Brunette?

cast your vote!

Feb. LPN - forgotten

2006-02-22T17:54:00.000-05:00

Can't believe I forgot to post the results of Feb. LPN.
Here goes. It was a steller night.....the winners of previous events were some of the first two knocked out....what a night!

We had 6 ladies and these are the results:
#6: AcesHigh
#5: Mrs. Blood/JoviLover
#4: IceT
#3: April
#2: PokerBtch
#1: Lisa

I am happy to see we are rotating the winnings here a bit.

Until next month at least.

Btch is Back

2006-02-18T00:31:00.000-05:00

TheMark hosted a tourney tonight and there were 9 people in. The short of it all .... I came in first. I was looking forward to a cash game after the tourney but after G-Rob and Blood left, the cash game was gone and the tourney broke up. Otis offered a chop for 2nd and 3rd with Shep and I took first. I had the most chips but Shep was a close second. They chopped to go to another cash game since ours had broken. To be honest, that is bullshit. I am glad I won and I would rather it end the way it did than have it be a donk fest and lose my lead so I caved. It all happened in a matter of 5 minutes and really sucks. They just bailed. I was left cleaning up everyone's sticky leftover shots, ashes, and crap. Why is it that I win the tourney and still get left holding the crap bag. I know why, because I am not about to pull the vagina card and tell my hubby to stay home. I am too good for that. Instead, I let him go have a great time and I sit at home with a buzz and my thumb up my ass. Although that may sound appetizing to some of you, it isn't to me on this particular night.

So there it is my bitch fest is over. Sometimes, it sucks being a domestic goddess.

Perhaps, I can get a group of ladies together somtime in the next millenium to go out and have a night for us while the men are staying home with sleeping kids. Any takers, let me know. Any time, any day.....I am there.....

The sooner the better

What a Trip!

2006-02-17T10:37:00.000-05:00

When I say I am taking a trip, I mean it. It has been a long time between blogs and I apologize for being slack. Jet lag will do that to you. ANYWAY, I had a fabulous time. We stayed at Ceasar's. That was ok. Not overly impressed but that is where the group was staying so we went with the flow, plus they comped us a couple of nights. The first night we got there Daniel was doing some promo at Ceasar's Poker Room. It was cool to see him in action. LOVE DANIEL. Just an awesome guy. The next day we were able to see "Shieky", "Mike the Mouth", and Billy Baxter mixing it up with a $400/800 mixed games. Poor "Shieky" was gettin' it hard from Mike and lost 10k to Billy. They played for hours so I am not sure the end result. But it was exciting to see the action. I was playing $1/2 NL and did rather well. That is my favorite game. Fortunately can laugh at myself so I don't mind sharing with the world that I made a major "oops" at the table. Luckily, it worked out for me. I was hitting a dry spell with my cards and for a tight box like myself it can get boring very quickly. I limped in w/KQh, trying to build the pot a bit. I had a couple of aggressive players to my left and knew I would get some action, and I did. So, I call his raise. I call it all the way down until the river, when I attempted to make a bluff with a huge pot size raise. I thought my tight image plus the fact that I hadn't played a hand in about 40 minutes would be enough to buy the pot. That strategy didn't work. He called and as I was turning over my cards I said "I think you got me beat. Nice call." I was in shock to realize I misread my cards. I didn't have KQh, I had KJo. Which was enough to give me the K high straight and I didn't even know it. At least I know enough to flip my cards over and let them speak for themselves. After that I played for about 20 more min. and realized I needed to get up and go before I make that mistake again and it doesn't work out for me.

WHAT A HEE-HAW!

One more "poker hand" story. I was playing the same game at the Wynn. I love the Wynn but hate the slow ass service, even when you tip big they are still freakin' slow so I started to double order my drinks. Anyway , I was holding my own but not getting great cards so my stack was slowly dwindling until light from the Poker Gods themselves shined upon me. I was on the button and got AK. I raised it to $15 and got 2 callers. flop came junk. I bet $30. Both called. Turn came more junk. I bet $60. One fold. One call. River was more junk. I bet $60 again and he folded. Not sure what he was looking for since there wasn't any draws, but it didn't come. The very next hand I was dealt KK. I was singing in my head. I scooped $100 pot from that. The very next hand after K's, I get AA. I know I must have had some kind of tell. I just couldn't believe the three hands in a row just kept getting better. I jammed the pot, hoping someone thought I was out of my mind and didn't have crap but I didn't get a caller that time. I would rather win a few blinds with my AA's then lose a shit load. I didn't show any of my cards although I was dying too.
Of course after that I didn't get a playable hand for the rest of my session. I was on such a high from getting those cards, it didn't matter.

Trip Results:
up a couple hund.
+20 off a proper bet w/ TheMark.
the price of a 10 carat diamond ring in the Cartier window at Wynn.
Stina 500k+ / Mark: 500k- Results:625K
Don't mess with a girl and her diamonds....

As far as the rest of the trip is concerned, we ate some unbelievably good food. It was unreal. We had limo rides to and from all casinos. Walked passed almost a thousand people waiting in line to get into Pure and walked right in. The club is insane. I could definitely do some damage in there. AND the Pussycat Lounge is HOTT! I was excited to see them do there thing. and somewhat jealous. In my younger year, I would have joined them. What a blast! I ate raw oysters on the half shell for the first time at Spago's. UNREAL! LOVE 'EM! They are so tastey, no salt water taste. SW's was off the hook. And room service was great, since our view of the Bellagio fountains was incredible.
Sorry to go on about this trip but I can't help but be in love with VEGAS. It is such a rush to go. It is definitely my drug of choice and I am an addict.

2006-01-31T20:11:00.000-05:00

Once again the time has come for me to travel to Vegas. This time with TheMark and a few other couples. We will enjoy an excellent Super Bowl weekend in the most exciting city to watch the game short of being at the game itself. I am cheering for Pittsburgh. GO STEELERS! I am looking forward to getting away. This will be an exciting time to relax, enjoy our friends, and hopefully get into some poker. At the very least TheMark and I can pull a couple of all nighters. Been there ... done that.... Not to mention just getting away from the day to day routine. Don't get me wrong I love the offspring but as anyone who has them knows a getaway is the best refresher. We will be staying at Ceasars. I am accepting recommendations for dining, poker action, etc. while we are there. Please respond with comments before Sat. See you after we get back.

It has been a while

2006-01-23T09:26:00.000-05:00

It has been pretty busy at TheMark lately. I apologize for the few of you out there that actually read this crap. So here is an update:

The result of January's LPN was very much the same as previous month's. I drop in 3rd or 4th and MrsBlood & IceT take the $ home. I have concluded that I have hit a dry spell in my poker playing but I am hopeful things will turn around. They always do. At the very least the ladies had a fun evening laughing at me....just ask AcesHigh. She thought it was a most comical evening. I had some back pain that I had taken medication for on that night and was extremely talkative at the table. I usually don't talk too much with the ladies or even with the guys now that I think of it. I try to respect each players play and let them play it. I don't like to be one of those players that annoy the shit out of you until you want to reach over the table and rip their throat out (Mike the Mouth) but when I am drinking or medicated I am less controlled. Oh well... we all have our moments....apparently it was one of my funnier ones...

Last Wednesday, I went with some ladies to the Bon Jovi concert in Charlotte. It was excellent! Best concert I have ever been to. He actually played for almost 2 hours straight. Any man with that kind of stamina ought to be immortalized. There are a couple of men I'd like to witness such an endurance test. That will have to be for another blog. I am getting exciting just thinking about it. Anyway , the ladies and I planned to spend the night for many reason but mainly just because we can. When Mrs Blood and I got there the room wasn't ready so we went to the mall to kill time and enjoy ourselves. We met up with the posse and went back to the hotel around 4 hours later. This time our room wasn't available apparently the guests that occupied the room before us decided to stay. So, the fine hotel was gave us 2 standard rooms for the price we were going to pay for our 1 suite. As I continued to think about it, it didn't seem right that even though we were getting 2 rooms we were paying our suite rate. They weren't doing enough to compensate our inconvenience. Then one room had left over food still in the frig., and the other a dirty "funky spunk" rag from the cleaning staff. So I called and spoke to Craig the front desk manager. He gave us about $50 off. Which I thought was pretty reasonable. I didn't expect to get the room for free for minor problems. We got ready, grabbed our free drinks for happy hour and headed to the bar. The bartender served everyone except asked for my i.d. I was shocked at first but then realized I had dressed very young looking in my new "thug" outfit that perhaps I did look 18 or he just wanted to see how old I really was. Either way, I had to go back up to the room to get it. Once we were done with that we walked a few blocks to dinner and then off to the concert. WHAT A BLAST!
All was cool until the AM. Mrs. Blood looked at the bill slipped under our door and was surprised they had finally got something right. When she went to show the other girls they had the same thing in their room. The hotel charged us for both rooms. To put it mildly, Mrs Blood was pissed. I tried to calm her down before heading to the front desk and it seemed to help. I told her that when I spoke to Craig he mentioned wanting to make things right with us and what would it take. So, perhaps she should mention that statement to him and suggest we get it for free due to all these issues. She did and He did. Way to go Craig. We will stay there again. So we got a free night's stay and an excellent concert plus new clothes....what a great night!

Another great night happened this weekend. TheMark and I joined some friends at the Red Cross benefit dinner downtown at the Hyatt. It was my first black tie event in Greenville. I loved it. It had excitement, drama, and wine. We started with limo ride to the Hyatt. The driver dropped us off and the sitter took the kids on a joy ride in the limo before bringing them home for pizza dinner. At the event they had a ton of item to auction both silent and live. The live was most exciting because by the time it started everyone in the room had been drinking so much wine that either they weren't paying attention or bid uncotrollably. The auctioneer had her hands full trying to keep things moving. She even tried stunts on stage by falling down on stages. She actually sat there in the middle of a bid and said " awe, hell nobody's paying attention anyway", or something like that. It was the funniest thing I had ever seen. The dinner was good and the company even better. To all the wives out there. I know of a new occupation that you should be cautious of. It is a "Wine Rep." The rep's that I saw were women and it was a green flag to flirt with every married man in the room. That is a bad combination with a room full of southern women that have been drinking wine all night. Can we say cat fight?! As I observed I had to raise a glass in awe of such strength these southern women had. I know this Yankee would not have had the same strength. I would throw punches yet but certainly would have had to say something. There was one lady that sat next to the man with his wife on the other side, asked for a picture, then had the photographer zoom in to cut out the wife. Yes, it was very obvious. Then the same woman, still sitting with the same couple was raising her dress up to show her thigh. Apparently, this couple has to endure this each year they go. Now that is when I would have to step in and say something. Just politely, lean in front of my husband toward her and say: " Excuse me ma'am is it possible for you to embarrass yourself somewhere else. Hiking up your dress or cutting me out of a picture isn't going to get you in bed with MY husband. It only makes you look pathetic." This lady had 10 years on the wife. By no means would the hubby be upgrading.... As you can tell there was all sorts of events going on. What a show! Had a BLAST!

LPN 2006

2006-01-07T10:45:00.000-05:00

This Friday will be our First LPN of the new year. I hope we start the new year off with a bang. Any of you ladies out there that want to join, let me know. This month is at the Blood's, 8pm.

I am hoping things will get mixed up a bit this year and everyone will be walking away with a winner not just the chosen few. Perhaps the Poker Gods are going to shine on all of us this year.

BBSOP

2006-01-02T21:00:00.000-05:00

BBSOP

Well, I participated in my first tourney of 2006 at the Bad Blood Series of Poker (BBSOP) and played the worst poker I have ever played in my life. If there was a poker book produced with all the things a player is not supposed to do in a tourney I would have done ALL of them. I think I played better poker when I was learning to play. Yes, it was that bad. When I should have folded, I raised. When I raised, I should have folded. My style of play is usually tight. I raise with the goods. Recently I have been getting WAY too much respect for that and then when I come up short in hands and try to use my "style" to scoop a pot and it inevitably back fires on me. I am either picking the wrong time or the wrong player or both.
I left Blood's so depressed it felt like I had just lost my best friend. I have never felt so badly when playing poker. Perhaps this is the best medicine for me. I haven't won a tourney in a long time and need a push to tweak my play. So maybe this was it.

Gavin vs. Daniel

I recently read a blog where Gavin Smith is challenging Daniel N. to the "Best Canadian" poker player title. Apparently, Gavin is insulted by the fact that most of America & Canada regard Daniel as the best Canadian player. The bet is 20k for best results in 2006. (10k for most $ and 10k for most $ in WSOP). The bet will count only the events they play in together. My personal $ is on Daniel. Not to knock down Gavin but I have to route for the man who has been through the ringer to obtain such respect. Besides, I am still holding out to party and play with Daniel. We all have our own poker fantasies and that is one of mine. Not sure I want the same fantasy with Gavin in it. Just not my type. Anyway back onto another topic.....

New Year's Eve!

It was a quiet but fun night at The Mark. We had BadBlood, Mrs. Blood, AcesHigh and TommyBoy over for an intimate dinner. I prepared an awesome meal if I say so myself.
This was the menu:
Shrimp Cocktail, Mixed Greens w/ Balsamic vinaigrette, Smashed Garlic Potatoes topped with a tender Beef Tenderloin steak, sauteed baby portabellos, and steamed asparagus drizzled w/ a cheese sauce.
The dessert tray including cheesecake, key lime tart, and chocolate cake.

Of course a champagne toast at the stroke of midnight.....

We all were busting at the seams. I was really concerned for Blood. He couldn't even sit still on the sofa and relax. It was so much fun to prepare this kind of dinner for my friends. I hope at some point to be able to prepare such a dinner for all my friends.

2006

What will the New Year bring? My family has been very blessed and I am hopeful these blessings will continue. My mother had a cancerous item removed from her bladder in 2005. I am hopeful all necessary precautions are being made to ensure it doesn't come back. My grandmother in law has memory issues and I pray for a easy life for her and our family when it can be difficult to be a part of these changes in her life. As far as my immediate family, all has been great. I expect nothing less for 2006. We have been looking for a piece of property to build a house. Our search has been somewhat unsuccessful but I am VERY optimistic for 2006. TheMark has a new employer and is very excited about entering a new chapter in his life. I am hoping for a better poker playing year....more financial success at least. I have also set some personal goals ..... I'll let you know what they are if I achieve them. hahaha! We have more travel plans than ever before and am hopeful to attend most of them.

I extend my deepest wishes of a bountiful New Year to all!

Mid week fun

2005-12-28T19:39:00.000-05:00

Last night TheMark and I decided to put together a last minute game. I was looking forward to unwinding a bit after being sick for the holidays and beginning to feel back to normal. As the tourney began with most of the usual G-Vegas crowd, I thought it would be a good idea to unwind with a few Corona's that had been left from a previous night. All was going well until I realized I was giving G-Rob shit for no reason and commenting on every hand. TheMark shot me some looks telling me to shut the hell up already. I was just plain trying to have some fun. To set the record straight, I wasn't drunk.....just lous and talkative. For that I apologize. Especially to G-Rob, whom I overheard at the end of the evening telling TheMark his wife "was screaming in his ear for 5 hours." I am sorry for turning a 3 hour session feel like 5.

I played ok but got tilty when I was getting too much respect and getting called when I tried to make moves. Just off my game I guess. Not really in the mood to analyze the situation right now. Perhaps later I can tweak my problem.

All observations welcome.

Happy Holidays

2005-12-26T14:33:00.000-05:00

I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas Day and will continue with an awesome Holiday season. Here on the home front the "little's" were getting restless. After getting "little 1" and "little 2" down for the count, Christmas Eve began for the adults. (And not how all ou men would like to think it began. you pigs.)

It took us several hours to put together a vanity, sink & stove combo, frig., puzzle box, and a few others. As always it was a late night. TheMark finished the entire kitchen set in the time it took me to finish the stupid vanity and I only had 6 screws in the entire set. I suck at that shit but fell sorry for TheMark and didn't want to leave him to do it all himself. I probably should have. He would have got it done faster. TheMark was thinking ahead or with his head when he had our hot tub fixed because after all our hard work we were able to unwind before hitting the sack for a few hours of sleep.

I made the frustrating mistake of snappping at TheMArk one night a week ago when discussing the horrible sleeping habits of "little 2". She wakes up every two hours just about every night screaming. I told TheMark I would take care of it all by myself if I had to.....and he said....uh..ok.
What a dumbass I am. I am a bitch when I don't get enough sleep. So, I am bitchy to "little 2" for no good reason when all she is doing is trying to get through the night. I become a different person after sleeping and get woken up every night, every two hours or so, with a screaming child. Normally, I am grumpy BUT this is way beyond grumpy. Any of you have suggestions, I'd love some. Since TheMark is on strike with this whole thing. I need some sleep!

Holy crap didn't even mention what Santa brought ME. How could I have overlooked that. It was your typical rip and go with the presents until the end. I gave TheMark a DVR recorder that he ahs been wanting. I think BadBlood needs to thank me. This will get TheMark off his back and I can have my Tivo back to normal now. All we have on our bedroom Tivo is WPT, WSOP, UPC,Learn from the Pros, etc. Now he can record them on a DVD and store them somewhere else. TheMark outdid himself this year for sure. He gave me the matching bracelet to my Tiffany necklace, a kick ass watch....AND asked me to marry him again. Got down on one knee and all. That is impressive especially since he already knows what he is getting and still asked again. Then he pulled out a NEW DIAMOND ring. I cried. For the first time I was truly shocked at a gift. It is awesome. Of course I said YES!
By the way, for those of you at a recent game at the Blood's, you might know this story but my engagement ring was recently misplaced. I don't wear it when cleaning and such so I had taken it off and the next day when I went to put it on it was gone. I was really upset and have been searching for it ever since. Long story long, TheMark had taken it with him for design reasons. I could kill him and kiss him at the same time. I was sooo worried it had gotten shoved somewhere, never to be found again. I should have known better.

Well, Santa came and threw up all over our house. So today, we will need to find a home for all our new items. Luckily, mine fits around my finger, and both wrists. Sorry, nothing to fit over the mouth!....

A Break?

2005-12-23T10:27:00.000-05:00

I just read Up For Poker was taking a break for 6 months? I can't believe it's true. Although I totally understand how much time and energy must go into maintaining a great blog (although I personally don't do it). I count on going to their site and getting a poker / life pick me up. Now, Where am I going to get that poker pick me up. Guess it falls on Bad Blood now. That is a scary thought. Just kidding blood.

Get some rest guys but don't fade out. We all really enjoy your style and love reading your blogs. (At least this Btch does).

more pics

2005-12-14T00:21:00.000-05:00

more pics

2005-12-14T00:15:00.000-05:00

Final Thoughts on UPC

2005-12-13T13:19:00.000-05:00

After a full day of excitement with T-shirt signing, I was craving some poker action. Unfortunately for me I wasn't with a group of people that had the same craving but I was determined to play even if I had to do it by myself. (don't go there) So, after the day was done we all grabbed some drinks. I just happened to be with John Phan and EasyE. He needed to check into his suite at the Paris. So we went there and the group was meeting up with us there. I had full intentions of ordering food at the bar but John insisted on us ordering room service since they comp. him EVERYTHING. So why spend my money when I can spend the casinos. We split: Shrimp cocktail, salad, French dip, and he ordered me a Chicken Soup for my poor voice box. I sounded awful at this point. I could have walked into a Waffle House and they would have thought I was the CEO. It was bad but what can a girl do except roll with it. After we were done eating we headed to the "Red Room" @ Mandalay Bay. All the AP execs were there. We had some very strong martinis. Not sure what was in it but they did the job. Phil, from AP, asked how much I was going to sell my T-shirt for? I answered not sure I am interested in selling it but ya never know. I am a bit selfish like that. I needed at least a day to process it all before considering that as an option. I told him he needed to have an AP girl do that at every event. It was great publicity. After our drinks we were off to a club. EasyE and myself were looking for some poker action and looking for a way to break away.
As we walked through the casino, someone in the group stopped at the roulette table. He placed about $800 down on various numbers. I leaned over to EasyE and said 13 is going to hit (my fav. number) Guess what hit, no not 13 but 12. After a few feet, the same gentleman placed the same size bet at another table. I went to reach in my pocket to get a bill and put it on 13. Then the voice of TheMark rang through my brain and said: "Don't bother it won't hit". So I closed up my purse and watched as 13 hit. EasyE looked at me and smiled. I guess I should have taken the chance.
When we got to the next bar, it was closed so this was my chance to break away politely and go play some $1/2 NL. EasyE was staying at The Plaza as well and he suggested we taxi together. But we made a few stops first. The Excalibur has loose tables but also a waiting list at 2AM. Luxor a bust. I am not sure where we woulnd up but it was fun. I was doing fine until my AK went up against QQ....and he flopped a set. After that I was ready to go and donked the rest off. HeeHaw.

All in all I had the time of my life. This trip was an eye opening experience for me. Growing up I was a dorky kinda kid that had a small number of friends and not a lot of attention. At this stage of my life, I feel as if I am finally coming into my own. I have never been more confident on the inside and out. TheMark has recently told me "You are getting better with age" and I believe him. If someone would have asked me if I thought I would go to Vegas to model for an online poker site, meet and party with pro players, enjoy the high life with CEO's and execs, I would have thought they were crazy. As BadBlood put it in one of his recent blog's: (paraphrasing) It is like another life you wish you had but once you experience a taste of it that is all you need. That is SO true. I LOVED, LOVED, LOVED, every moment but would NEVER trade it for the life I have in G-Vegas. And without G-Vegas, I would have never started blogging which got me the job.

Now for the thank you's.

First: To thank Absolute Poker.com for hiring me for this event and hope to be able to do this again sometime. The job was easy for me since I LOVE poker and can talk really well too.

Second: To Phil & Scott Thom, Jeff Todd, Jen Tidwell, John Phan, and my new friend Eric. Without these people it would have been boring and uneventful. Thanks for a taste of the good life.

Third: To all the family and friends who supported my decision to do this and helped out on the home front while I was away.

Saved the Best for Last: To my loving, compassionate, and sexy life partner who unconditionally allowed me to have the experience of a life time that many, many men would have never allowed. What an illustration of the powerful, long lasting, relationship we have. You are my best friend and I love you. Thank you for the best time of my life and I look forward to having many of these special moments with you in the future.

The Main Event Day#1

2005-12-13T12:50:00.000-05:00

As my previous post indicated I was able to see a ton of action from all sorts of players. And took lots of mental notes. So, watch out next time at the tables....I am dangerous now. The highlight of this day was lunch break. It was awesome. In the AP tent many pros came out for a signing event and in the early AM I had a brilliant idea to see if I could get a shirt signed for myself with a couple of pros....No biggie. So, I asked the events manager, J, if she thought it would be possible. She wasn't sure but I brought my t-shirt anyway. Well, the signing event was a perfect opportunity and as it was winding down I pulled out my shirt. My first signature was Ted Forest. What a sweet man. As you can imagine I was talking ALOT. Which isn't hard for me to do but hard on my vocal cords. So at times my voice would fade and by this day it was almost gone. Ted gave me some great advice on how I could take care of that. As he was struggling to sign my shirt, I came up with another brilliant idea. Put the damn thing on. So after Ted signed it, (sorry Ted for the missed opportunity), I did just that.

It was a media frenzy. I would really like copies of those photos because I know somebody's got them. Everyone that was still in the tent was more than happy to sign and then I took myself and my t-shirt into the poker room. Many more added themselves to my awesome souvenir. If you want to see the T-shirt, it will be framed very shortly including pics my special friends.

What an awesome experience.

Ultimate Poker Challenge @ The Plaza

2005-12-12T16:53:00.000-05:00

The pictures are in and the blogging begins.
On the second day of my trip, it was the day before the main event began. The poker room was buzzing with people entering satellites in order to get into the action for less. Can't blame 'em. But after the AP hospitality tent closed and I was done working for the day, the fun began. The AP group went to Mandalay Bay's Foundation Room where I witnessed the most beautiful view from the top of Mandalay Bay Casino. At the Foundation Room we all were amazed with a "mentalist", who proceeded to bend a quarter, read my mind (literally), change the time on my watch while I was wearing it, and several mind blowing card tricks. What a free show we got. If you ever have to opportunity to go, I would. After a few drinks we decided to go to the Palms for a little dancing at Rain. The only thing that would accommodate all of us was a stretch limo so we piled in. This gave me the unique opportunity to get to know more about the awesome owners / CEO's of Absolute Poker. What nice people they were. At Rain we went VIP to a sky box where we looked down on the dance floor and had a private room with a private open bar. I had a blast and finally returned to my room with tired feet around 5AM. I had to get some sleep since I needed to be up by 9AM the next day.

Still waiting

2005-12-10T22:57:00.000-05:00

I have been waiting for the pics from the UPC so I can share them with everyone and I should have them in hand Monday morning. Sorry about the lapse in blogs but I was hoping to blog with pics. It adds so much to the experience.

Thanks for waiting
B