Lola just called me to give the news that she was in a car accident. My natural reaction was "are you ok?" She replied with a confident "yes" and we discussed what happened. As she was pulling into the parking lot of a local shopping centre her van decided to disobey and slid right into the parked car to her right. It is extremely icy in our parts right now.
The front left side of the ladies car is messed up. As Lola was leaving the car a detailed note, the lady came out from the shopping area. They exchanged information and away they went.
Lola said she felt helpless. I am sure you can all relate. That lost sense of control when everything around you is happening in slow motion and you know there is no way you can stop the inevitable. Scary really.
So yeah, a good way to ring in the new year is to know you are going to have to pay your deductible and buck up for an unavoidable accident waiting to happen. I am sure there was a dozen of them happening at the same time in all different areas of my part of town.
Be safe out there tonight kids. Plan your ride, don't be a statistic.
This message is brought to you by the drunk guitar hero world tour playing, foosball whacking, dart throwing, midnight singing, champagne slugging Schaubs.
----
One last Mookie for Mookie and Hoy... can I win my bet with Instant Tragedy? I don't like my chances... but I do like the fact that it starts at 6pm pacific tonight instead of the usual 7pm. That will allow many more east coasters to get in on the action... hopefully Hoy and Mook show up and make it heads up and guarantee my victory!
Happy New Year everyone.
31.12.08
29.12.08
Help Jeff Out
I don't know this guy. In fact, I've never met Vinnay either.
I felt compelled to pitch in. I can't explain why. I just did.
Check it out and if you feel the same way I did when I read it, then ship what you can.
Good luck Jeff.
I felt compelled to pitch in. I can't explain why. I just did.
Check it out and if you feel the same way I did when I read it, then ship what you can.
Good luck Jeff.
27.12.08
Poker Content - MTT question
I decided to jump into a tiny little $2 tournament yesterday to kill some time while Lola went to a movie (the one with Jennifer Aniston and a dog). I was cruising along not really paying too much attention, playing my usual too tight of a game. After it was all said and done I finished 11th:
Full Tilt Poker Tournament Summary $2 + $0.25 Tournament (73780885) Hold'em No LimitBuy-In: $2 + $0.25
Buy-In Chips: 1500
425 Entries
Total Prize Pool: $850
Still Playing - Roy L Shaft
Still Playing - Jim Mt
Still Playing - scgamac
Still Playing - BennyTheBrik
Still Playing - cyruskash
Still Playing - RedJake777
Still Playing - Glyper
Still Playing - verypo
Still Playing - AceRound
Still Playing - redpoker10
11: Schaubs, $9.78 - what a return on my investment!
So with first place worth over $200 I thought I had a good chance to take this thing down.
Here is where I would like your opinion. What would you do?
Seat 1: BennyTheBrik (119,752)
Seat 2: Schaubs (50,432)
Seat 5: cyruskash (69,511)
Seat 6: RedJake777 (47,788)
Seat 7: redpoker10 (31,938)
Seat 8: Glyper (26,724)
BennyTheBrik antes 400
Schaubs antes 400
cyruskash antes 400
RedJake777 antes 400
redpoker10 antes 400
Glyper antes 400
RedJake777 posts the small blind of 1,500
redpoker10 posts the big blind of 3,000
The button is in seat #5
*** HOLE CARDS ***Dealt to Schaubs [Kd Qs]
Glyper folds
BennyTheBrik folds
Schaubs raises to 9,000
cyruskash folds
RedJake777 raises to 47,388, and is all in
redpoker10 folds
Schaubs???
I don't want to be results oriented here and maybe this is the wrong place to be posting a poker question as I usually don't get the feedback I need in this space. I've been going elsewhere for my poker feedback, but I thought I would give it another try and ask all of my valued readers their opinion on what they would do.
I'll post the results either in the comments or in a seperate post next week when everyone has had a chance to catch up on their reading and has recovered from their turkey comatose.
I can't wait for NFL Sunday tomorrow. It's gonna be a good one! Go Chargers, Go Dolphins!
Two posts in one day?? Who is this guy...
Full Tilt Poker Tournament Summary $2 + $0.25 Tournament (73780885) Hold'em No LimitBuy-In: $2 + $0.25
Buy-In Chips: 1500
425 Entries
Total Prize Pool: $850
Still Playing - Roy L Shaft
Still Playing - Jim Mt
Still Playing - scgamac
Still Playing - BennyTheBrik
Still Playing - cyruskash
Still Playing - RedJake777
Still Playing - Glyper
Still Playing - verypo
Still Playing - AceRound
Still Playing - redpoker10
11: Schaubs, $9.78 - what a return on my investment!
So with first place worth over $200 I thought I had a good chance to take this thing down.
Here is where I would like your opinion. What would you do?
Seat 1: BennyTheBrik (119,752)
Seat 2: Schaubs (50,432)
Seat 5: cyruskash (69,511)
Seat 6: RedJake777 (47,788)
Seat 7: redpoker10 (31,938)
Seat 8: Glyper (26,724)
BennyTheBrik antes 400
Schaubs antes 400
cyruskash antes 400
RedJake777 antes 400
redpoker10 antes 400
Glyper antes 400
RedJake777 posts the small blind of 1,500
redpoker10 posts the big blind of 3,000
The button is in seat #5
*** HOLE CARDS ***Dealt to Schaubs [Kd Qs]
Glyper folds
BennyTheBrik folds
Schaubs raises to 9,000
cyruskash folds
RedJake777 raises to 47,388, and is all in
redpoker10 folds
Schaubs???
I don't want to be results oriented here and maybe this is the wrong place to be posting a poker question as I usually don't get the feedback I need in this space. I've been going elsewhere for my poker feedback, but I thought I would give it another try and ask all of my valued readers their opinion on what they would do.
I'll post the results either in the comments or in a seperate post next week when everyone has had a chance to catch up on their reading and has recovered from their turkey comatose.
I can't wait for NFL Sunday tomorrow. It's gonna be a good one! Go Chargers, Go Dolphins!
Two posts in one day?? Who is this guy...
FSL Follow up
Don't do this:
Ensure you give yourself enough time to make your picks... I decided to get my fix with about 7 minutes before the contest started... Well I got side tracked and distracted with a poker tournament that I was playing in and when the clock struck 4pm (eastern games get started) my teams was locked at its curent selections. The results speak for themself. Notice how I only have 5 players of the allowable 9 selected on my team? I had about 180 of the 575 point cap left to use and all of the sudden all player selections were locked and I wasn't able to complete my team.
I'm not saying I would have won, but I am pretty confident I could have come second. I'm down to my last buck on FSL. Looks like my FSL career will be in semi retirement soon...
It would be great if FSL would take it another step and allow you to still take players from games that have not actually started, and won't start for another 3 hours (the west coast games). All they would have to do is lock the players where their games have already started, and allow you to select players that are still available. FSL still has work to do, and they need to start thinking like a true fantasy league if they don't want to fall behind.
Think of it this way, when you are playing in your fantasy football league and there are Thursday games, Sunday morningm, afternoon and evening games, as well as a MNF game or two, you are typically allowed to adjust your roster before game time. As each game starts, those players are locked. However if you want to make a last minute change... that opportunity is still available.
Make sense?
I really hope FSL continues to work on their product and make improvements to stay ahead of the curve.
24.12.08
FantasySportsLive.com vs. Snapdraft on Fanball.com
I wouldn't be doing the fantasy junkies justice if I didn't give my take on the two sites. I wanted to wait until I had a better understanding of Snapdraft before I commented on whether I liked it or not. I haven't really spent a whole lot of time using snapdraft but I feel that based on what I have read from others, and what I have seen with my own two eyes, I now feel comfortable giving my opinion.
First off, let's talk about the little guy who came up with this brilliant idea (I think he has a couple of partners?) When FSL first came online I wasn't able to sign up or register an account - because I am Canadian. One quick email to Blinders and he had my account set up with a few bonus bucks to get me started. I was quite impressed and began my FSL career over a year ago on his site. I'm a small time player and I really don't spend a whole lot of effort or thought into picking my teams. My results speak for themself. Sure I've had 67 wins and sit somewhere in the middle of the leaderboard, but I've never taken it seriously. A few times I have given it my best efforts in hockey and I have been successful. It's all about picking the correct matchups and being proficient at finding those value gems. Picking the winning goalie is a must. In fact, I know that if I put in the effort I could make some good money on that site because frankly - there are a lot of FSL donkey's out there who have money to spew.
Speaking of donkeys... there are even more of them on Snapdraft (no link for you, sorry but I just don't know you that well yet... ever?). I'll admit, I made a deposit of $20 and got the bonus $5 into my account. The first contest I signed up for was a $2, 25 man hockey contest. It didn't even fill up! I was refunded my money and I went on to play in a NFL pool this past Sunday instead. It was a $10 pool. Do these guys really think they can get 25 daily contestants into a hockey pool? Why not start small? I'll tell you why... because they are greedy!
The rake at Snapdraft is brutal, we know this already. The contests are a bit different. For example you don't HAVE to select 3 WR's in NFL. There is a spot for a flex player instead. I elected to take a second QB as I assumed that they would produce the most fantasy points. I was correct, and almost every other team selected a second QB as well. If I had taken Cassels instead of Warner I would have done much better. I didn't cash and the streak continues as I have yet to cash in a fantasy weekly football pool yet this year.
The one thing I do like about snapdraft NFL is the fact that you can select players from multiple days. Specifically, Monday night football. I can't tell you how many times I've had my eye on a player or two when assembling my team at FSL and then realize that they are playing on MNF and I don't have the option to select any of the studs. I will say, it is a bit frustrating.
So I am yet to post a win at snapdraft, and I am having trouble with "table selection" once again. What I hate the most about snapdraft is the lag time. For example if you log on right now, you won't be able to join a match for tonight's games. The cutoff is actually the following day. This makes it hard to select a team because often I am always basing my decisions on how a team did on a back to back night. Or who they are plaing and what information I have heard or read during my breaks at work.
I want the quick fix. If I am signing in, it is to play that day. Not the next. I am joining because I have a gut feeling on a few players based on game day news and notes. I am finding that gem of a goalie that will win my match for me. I can't tell you how many times at FSL I've selected a sleeper goalie that has won me the cash. I usually use a site like goaliepost to seek out my winner.
Overall I have to say that FSL is still the place to be (so go there and sign up! click on that banner down the right side - an unpaid avertisement I might add... the only one of its kind here at UPP!).
The rake and the game selection far exceed the level of competition. Don't get me wrong, there are a few studs (ok more than a few) but if you pick the right matchups you can make some good coin. I usually check out the heads up matches and look for the ones that already have 1 player. That way, you control your matchup and can avoid the sharks and prey on the fantasy donkeys.
GLGLGL.
First off, let's talk about the little guy who came up with this brilliant idea (I think he has a couple of partners?) When FSL first came online I wasn't able to sign up or register an account - because I am Canadian. One quick email to Blinders and he had my account set up with a few bonus bucks to get me started. I was quite impressed and began my FSL career over a year ago on his site. I'm a small time player and I really don't spend a whole lot of effort or thought into picking my teams. My results speak for themself. Sure I've had 67 wins and sit somewhere in the middle of the leaderboard, but I've never taken it seriously. A few times I have given it my best efforts in hockey and I have been successful. It's all about picking the correct matchups and being proficient at finding those value gems. Picking the winning goalie is a must. In fact, I know that if I put in the effort I could make some good money on that site because frankly - there are a lot of FSL donkey's out there who have money to spew.
Speaking of donkeys... there are even more of them on Snapdraft (no link for you, sorry but I just don't know you that well yet... ever?). I'll admit, I made a deposit of $20 and got the bonus $5 into my account. The first contest I signed up for was a $2, 25 man hockey contest. It didn't even fill up! I was refunded my money and I went on to play in a NFL pool this past Sunday instead. It was a $10 pool. Do these guys really think they can get 25 daily contestants into a hockey pool? Why not start small? I'll tell you why... because they are greedy!
The rake at Snapdraft is brutal, we know this already. The contests are a bit different. For example you don't HAVE to select 3 WR's in NFL. There is a spot for a flex player instead. I elected to take a second QB as I assumed that they would produce the most fantasy points. I was correct, and almost every other team selected a second QB as well. If I had taken Cassels instead of Warner I would have done much better. I didn't cash and the streak continues as I have yet to cash in a fantasy weekly football pool yet this year.
Thankfully, I won my keeper league this year. Ship $300, boom. Ironically, our FFL is hosted at Fanball.com and has been for the last three years. Joining Snapdraft was sooooo easy. I basically just made one click and then shipped my buyin via paypal.
As I said, being Canadian does have its disadvantages. If I ever want to send more money to FSL or make a withdrawal (I've only done that once after last years NFL season) then I take the lazy route and send Blinders an email and we ship the $ back and forth through Full Tilt. So in one sense there is a benefit because Blinders is very accomodating in that way, the downside is that I have to then make a withdrawal from Full Tilt if I want the cold hard cash. The rake at FSL is much more reasonable, and the speed of the whole site is improving on a consistent basis.
If you want to read an excellent rake analysis, go here. Very well done.
The one thing I do like about snapdraft NFL is the fact that you can select players from multiple days. Specifically, Monday night football. I can't tell you how many times I've had my eye on a player or two when assembling my team at FSL and then realize that they are playing on MNF and I don't have the option to select any of the studs. I will say, it is a bit frustrating.
So I am yet to post a win at snapdraft, and I am having trouble with "table selection" once again. What I hate the most about snapdraft is the lag time. For example if you log on right now, you won't be able to join a match for tonight's games. The cutoff is actually the following day. This makes it hard to select a team because often I am always basing my decisions on how a team did on a back to back night. Or who they are plaing and what information I have heard or read during my breaks at work.
I want the quick fix. If I am signing in, it is to play that day. Not the next. I am joining because I have a gut feeling on a few players based on game day news and notes. I am finding that gem of a goalie that will win my match for me. I can't tell you how many times at FSL I've selected a sleeper goalie that has won me the cash. I usually use a site like goaliepost to seek out my winner.
Overall I have to say that FSL is still the place to be (so go there and sign up! click on that banner down the right side - an unpaid avertisement I might add... the only one of its kind here at UPP!).
The rake and the game selection far exceed the level of competition. Don't get me wrong, there are a few studs (ok more than a few) but if you pick the right matchups you can make some good coin. I usually check out the heads up matches and look for the ones that already have 1 player. That way, you control your matchup and can avoid the sharks and prey on the fantasy donkeys.
GLGLGL.
19.12.08
Tweet
I caved. I had been avoiding it because I didn't want another distraction. I've got too many already and now with this tweeting business only time will tell what gives first.
Feel free to add me. I have no idea what I am doing yet, but it seems pretty basic.
Is it me or is twitter just the same as writing an update like on facebook?
I think I like it better. Much more annonymous and no high school friends are stalking me... yet.*
Have a good weekend everyone. I hope you are done your shopping. I managed to finish mine last night... in one night!
That's like flopping quads baby!
*(If you are reading this and you went to high school with me, then you are exempt from the above comment)
Feel free to add me. I have no idea what I am doing yet, but it seems pretty basic.
Is it me or is twitter just the same as writing an update like on facebook?
I think I like it better. Much more annonymous and no high school friends are stalking me... yet.*
Have a good weekend everyone. I hope you are done your shopping. I managed to finish mine last night... in one night!
That's like flopping quads baby!
*(If you are reading this and you went to high school with me, then you are exempt from the above comment)
17.12.08
Not a WPBT weekend Recap, and then some
Just like this guy, I too had a weekend. Didn't everyone?
Friday - Company Christmas party. Lots of food, great views, very short speeches, wine, grand prize winning, more wine, and of course, lots of laughs. Lola's number was plucked in a fundraiser draw for needy families. It was the second place prize... then two minutes later her number was plucked again and she won the big grand prize. When I went up to collect (she was shyishly shy) we gave back the second place prize so it could be redrawn. We raised $740 in raffle tickets and gave it away to those less fortunate. We all should do that more often, I feel.
Saturday - Hung over just a tad. Went to work for a few, napped a few and had a few. Then the snow started to fall... only 2-3 inches though. We didn't even consider going for a walk in it as we both knew there would be more to come. Much more tonight I hear.
Sunday - more of that work stuff and then over to an open house/christmas party where I watched football and sweated my FF semi finals in my keeper league. I won. Barely, all thanks to my opponent who is known for his historically bad coaching. It was offical on Monday, and I won by a measly 4 points.
Hard work pays off.
All the while, I was thinking of the great times that all the wonderful bloggers were having. I truly did miss out on a great time from what I've read so far. I look forward to reading many more recaps and am sure I will once again, regret not going. Next time...
----
Monday was a riot. I went to the club and played some cards. The hand of the night was one of those "whooooaaaa!!!" moments. Two guys in a blind raised pot totalling about $7-8 ($.50 chips).
The flop comes out 5-5-5.
Wow. Not too often you see that, right? So the first guy bets $5 blind. The other guy calls.
The turn is an 8. The first guy bets another blind $5, the other guy min-raises $5 blind, the first guy calls. They are still playing blind.
The river is an irrelevent card, let's call it a 10. The first guy bets $10 blind, and the other guys calls again.
The first guy flips over Q8o for the turned boat.
The second guy goes "Imagine if this card was the case 5..."
Flips over the first card and it is the last five in the deck. Sick! So crazy. Lots of laughs and donkey name calling by me obv. If either of them looked on the turn, I think they get it all in ($100 each or so), but only because they are both feeble-minded gamblers.
Good times.
Friday - Company Christmas party. Lots of food, great views, very short speeches, wine, grand prize winning, more wine, and of course, lots of laughs. Lola's number was plucked in a fundraiser draw for needy families. It was the second place prize... then two minutes later her number was plucked again and she won the big grand prize. When I went up to collect (she was shyishly shy) we gave back the second place prize so it could be redrawn. We raised $740 in raffle tickets and gave it away to those less fortunate. We all should do that more often, I feel.
Saturday - Hung over just a tad. Went to work for a few, napped a few and had a few. Then the snow started to fall... only 2-3 inches though. We didn't even consider going for a walk in it as we both knew there would be more to come. Much more tonight I hear.
Sunday - more of that work stuff and then over to an open house/christmas party where I watched football and sweated my FF semi finals in my keeper league. I won. Barely, all thanks to my opponent who is known for his historically bad coaching. It was offical on Monday, and I won by a measly 4 points.
Hard work pays off.
All the while, I was thinking of the great times that all the wonderful bloggers were having. I truly did miss out on a great time from what I've read so far. I look forward to reading many more recaps and am sure I will once again, regret not going. Next time...
----
Monday was a riot. I went to the club and played some cards. The hand of the night was one of those "whooooaaaa!!!" moments. Two guys in a blind raised pot totalling about $7-8 ($.50 chips).
The flop comes out 5-5-5.
Wow. Not too often you see that, right? So the first guy bets $5 blind. The other guy calls.
The turn is an 8. The first guy bets another blind $5, the other guy min-raises $5 blind, the first guy calls. They are still playing blind.
The river is an irrelevent card, let's call it a 10. The first guy bets $10 blind, and the other guys calls again.
The first guy flips over Q8o for the turned boat.
The second guy goes "Imagine if this card was the case 5..."
Flips over the first card and it is the last five in the deck. Sick! So crazy. Lots of laughs and donkey name calling by me obv. If either of them looked on the turn, I think they get it all in ($100 each or so), but only because they are both feeble-minded gamblers.
Good times.
10.12.08
Instant Reminder...
Instant Tragedy reminded me of a bet we once made back near the beginning of 2008.
The bet was as follows (although the details are a bit fuzzy, I'll go with it):
$10 (I do remember making fun of him for only betting $10, but now I am pretty happy that he convinced me to keep it small!)
I bet that Mookie or Hoyazo would win the Mookie before 2008 was over.
I remember being on BDR when making the bet... sort of.
Instant Tragedy took the bet and so far he is looking like he is going to take this sucker down.
Then for a moment I thought about playing tomorrow and just dumping my chips to Mookie or Hoy... and then realized that $10 would cover my bet payment... so what would be the point. Not smrt sometimes I know. But hey, at least I'm honest.
So yeah, I'll be pulling for Hoy and Mookie over the next month... if I am in the tournament, then I still might have to knock them out if I want to win my own first Mookie... I'll cross that bridge if I ever come to it (very unlikely).
Do you think either of them will show up to play on December 31st? I know I won't be there, but I'll be sending all the good vibes I can!
Cuz IT money is gold baby!
Have fun in Vegas blogheads.
The bet was as follows (although the details are a bit fuzzy, I'll go with it):
$10 (I do remember making fun of him for only betting $10, but now I am pretty happy that he convinced me to keep it small!)
I bet that Mookie or Hoyazo would win the Mookie before 2008 was over.
I remember being on BDR when making the bet... sort of.
Instant Tragedy took the bet and so far he is looking like he is going to take this sucker down.
Then for a moment I thought about playing tomorrow and just dumping my chips to Mookie or Hoy... and then realized that $10 would cover my bet payment... so what would be the point. Not smrt sometimes I know. But hey, at least I'm honest.
So yeah, I'll be pulling for Hoy and Mookie over the next month... if I am in the tournament, then I still might have to knock them out if I want to win my own first Mookie... I'll cross that bridge if I ever come to it (very unlikely).
Do you think either of them will show up to play on December 31st? I know I won't be there, but I'll be sending all the good vibes I can!
Cuz IT money is gold baby!
Have fun in Vegas blogheads.
9.12.08
Blogger sucks sometimes
I just spent a disgusting amount of time trying to figure out some of this code for the banner you see there on the right. Is it worth it? I doubt it. I didn't even end up doing much in the end. Which is just as frustrating as trying to respace and edit relentlessly, and then just giving in and keeping it as a banner instead.
Jordan might be on to something here. I mean am I really going to play in these freerolls? I'll probably give one or two a try and then get bored and donate my chips as I did last year. Either that, or just not show up at all. I mean it's Christmas time, and I'm trying to take a break from poker...
So far... not so good.
Jordan might be on to something here. I mean am I really going to play in these freerolls? I'll probably give one or two a try and then get bored and donate my chips as I did last year. Either that, or just not show up at all. I mean it's Christmas time, and I'm trying to take a break from poker...
So far... not so good.
5.12.08
Time to start saving...
I'm a Porsche 911!
You have a classic style, but you're up-to-date with the latest technology. You're ambitious, competitive, and you love to win. Performance, precision, and prestige - you're one of the elite,and you know it.
Take the Which Sports Car Are You? quiz.
Lola and I would look damn good flying around town in this thing...
Hmmmmm kids or a Porsche, kids or a Porsche??
4.12.08
Momma's make the world go 'round
A quick update.
My mom is doing a heck of a lot better. In fact, she was released from the stinky hospital on Monday night. She didn't call me until the next afternoon, which is no surprise. She needed her rest. I don't think she got more than 2 hours of solid sleep per night. Having 3 other people who are in the same boat as you are can do that to a person...
I knew she was going to get released shortly after I saw her on Sunday. I could see it in her eyes and in her complextion. She even gave me a fist pump like she had just won a coin flip for all her chips... She wanted out badly and I am glad she is now home safely and resting.
Anyway, I appreciate all of the kind comments and emails. Every little bit helps. So thank you, thank you, and thank YOU.
I'm still on a poker break. No Mookie two weeks in a row... sometimes I amaze myself.
I've been looking for some good books to purchase. I'm having trouble finding an online bookstore that takes paypal and won't over charge me (sometimes double - B&N) for a book I could get at Amazon.com for dirt cheap. I figure if I am going to play less, then I should spend some of that time studying more. It can only help, and when I come back I will be refreshed and ready to start 2009 with a bang.
I can't believe Christmas is only 3 weeks away... and Vegas is only 1 week away for all those who are lucky enough to make it happen.
I remember final tabling the Mookie last year the night before I left for Vegas. I got in a bit of trouble from Lola because we were in the process of moving (way behind on packing) and I was sitting there playing the Mookie the night before I was leaving. Jerkstore big time. I also remember how drunk Don was on BDR. Maybe he will make another appearance on air?
GL at the tables everyone.
My mom is doing a heck of a lot better. In fact, she was released from the stinky hospital on Monday night. She didn't call me until the next afternoon, which is no surprise. She needed her rest. I don't think she got more than 2 hours of solid sleep per night. Having 3 other people who are in the same boat as you are can do that to a person...
I knew she was going to get released shortly after I saw her on Sunday. I could see it in her eyes and in her complextion. She even gave me a fist pump like she had just won a coin flip for all her chips... She wanted out badly and I am glad she is now home safely and resting.
Anyway, I appreciate all of the kind comments and emails. Every little bit helps. So thank you, thank you, and thank YOU.
I'm still on a poker break. No Mookie two weeks in a row... sometimes I amaze myself.
I've been looking for some good books to purchase. I'm having trouble finding an online bookstore that takes paypal and won't over charge me (sometimes double - B&N) for a book I could get at Amazon.com for dirt cheap. I figure if I am going to play less, then I should spend some of that time studying more. It can only help, and when I come back I will be refreshed and ready to start 2009 with a bang.
I can't believe Christmas is only 3 weeks away... and Vegas is only 1 week away for all those who are lucky enough to make it happen.
I remember final tabling the Mookie last year the night before I left for Vegas. I got in a bit of trouble from Lola because we were in the process of moving (way behind on packing) and I was sitting there playing the Mookie the night before I was leaving. Jerkstore big time. I also remember how drunk Don was on BDR. Maybe he will make another appearance on air?
GL at the tables everyone.
1.12.08
Unfortunately, It's not gonna happen...
Long story, short - I'm not going to the December gathering. There, I said it.
And it sucks.
About 6 months ago I had this great vision of a blogger golf tournament that would include beers, gambling and of course, a ton of laughs. As each month passed I began to stress about where to play, and if anyone would commit in time to get something confirmed with a few of the bloggers who have shown interest in golf. I originally thought I could get 4-5 groups together, we would play in the morning (most likely Friday) and then let the rest of the day work itself out. I even had Mookie create a banner (he rocks) that myself, Dr. Chako, Miami Don and Bammer were going to pimp. I feel bad that I am leaving Dr. Chako hangin' and that we won't be able to meet. I remember signing that guitar that The Wife and Instant Tragedy arranged and had hoped to meet the man himself. I know there will be other opportunities, and that's just the way it will have to be.
As time progressed it became more and more clear that BamBam and a few others were not going to be heading out to Vegas and I began to question how serious I truly was about going this December. I really really wanted to go, because I knew I would have an even better time this year (almost tough to imagine, really) knowing all the great people that were going, that much better.
There is so much that I wanted to do, so many things that I said I would try. I wanted to be more outgoing and not so shy as I was the first time around. I mean don't get me wrong, that was the real Schaubs, but when you get to know me... or should I say, when I let myself get to know you, it opens up a whole different level of conversation and laughs. It's just the way I am.
I'm not proud of it sometimes, but it's me. I wanted to play in the mixed game at the MGM, something I never did the first time I was there. I just hung out in the background and played 1/2NL for way too long. I wanted to learn Pai Gow, even though I again, sat in the background last time and watched BWOP, F-train and HighonPoker grind out a late night session that first night I was there.
Maybe I was just wandering and reflecting?
I just read BWOP's latest post, which is partially responsible for this post. I felt obligated to make this long overdue announcement. I just wish I could be writing about the game of golf that I was looking forward to playing...
Raging with RecessRampage would have definitely been a highlight. Going for a couple of wicked dinners and slingin' some chips in a mixed game or even just pounding some beers would have been great. Hopefully he'll make a trip out my way in 2009 (anyone else??). Do it.
All these people were very excepting and extremely kind. I really wish I would have gotten more involved in those little activites like craps (why not eh) and some overdrinking at the IP Hooker bar. That is where you can meet a bunch of people you read on a daily basis. Astin, GCox, Kat, Iggy... there are so many other beauties that I can't even list them all.
I wanted to hang out with Dr. Paul, even if just for a bit. He's actually one of the few bloggers that I've met on more than one occasion. Both times in Vegas, of course. Change100, Derek, Al etc all great people to shoot the shit with. I wanted to buy Al a shot and talk about nothing.
Playing in the Venetian tournament is a must if you are there. It's such a good time and the table banter is worth the buyin alone. Make sure you bring some sort of an orignal bounty prize. It doesn't have to be expensive, just something from you.
Sports betting (I'd guess at the IP) is also a must if you are a football fan. Being Canadian, it cracks me up to see all of the bloggers in their NFL gear cheering for their home team. Grinding out those parlays and overhearing the discussions of who to pick in the afternoon games while downing another beer and slice of IP pizza.
It's a shame, really. I didn't think there was any chance that I'd miss out. But it's now a reality. I'll blame part of it on myself, no doubt. I didn't book anything in advance, or commit like so many others did a few months back. Looking at the flights, they just keep getting cheaper and cheaper... except the Canadian dollar keeps taking a beating. Tag on another 15%. Super sweet. So if you are there, just think of me, because I know I will be thinking of all of you. Damn, now I am making myself jealous... sniff*.
Ok so there are other reasons. The most important one being my mother's health. Apparantly she had one of those serious things called a heart attack about a year ago and didn't know it at the time. It happened right after a surgery, and she chalked it up as a chest pain. I guess it's not as obvious for woman as it is for men. Needless to say, this past week has been kinda stressful and has got me thinking.
Thinking a lot.
There is so much to say, yet I'm not sure what the point is. I need to make some changes in my life, I need to get things straight. I need to spend more time with the ones that matter most. This thing with my mom has put some perspective on my life. Her worrying about my health is not something she should be doing. Now that she is sitting in a hospital bed she has a lot of time to think. I know I need to go to the doctor and get my heart checked again and confirm that everything is ok.
Not for me, for her, for Lola, for my sister and the rest.
Poker is on the backburner until further notice. Last night was the last straw. I'm not playing well, and even if I do I am not being rewarded. It happens, it's part of the life session blah blah blah. I need a break and I need one bad. So me not going to Vegas is actually a good thing at this point and that is the way I am going to accept it. I'm playing poker at the worst possible times. After drinking, usually with little focus and very little game plan. Not even close to the correct frame of mind to show any sort of positive results, that's a guarantee.
Instead of just talking about it, it's time do something about it. Starting tonight.
Anyway, I really am feeling shitty about not making it to the Vegas gathering. It was never my intention to pull a no show. I hate no shows. I always thought it would work out. I was wrong.
Or should I just say, things change.
I need to be part of that change, and that is what I am taking care of over the last month of 2008.
So have a blast without me, and be lucky that I'm not gunning for your bounty prize or kicking your ass in RPS side bets.
Cheers!
And it sucks.
About 6 months ago I had this great vision of a blogger golf tournament that would include beers, gambling and of course, a ton of laughs. As each month passed I began to stress about where to play, and if anyone would commit in time to get something confirmed with a few of the bloggers who have shown interest in golf. I originally thought I could get 4-5 groups together, we would play in the morning (most likely Friday) and then let the rest of the day work itself out. I even had Mookie create a banner (he rocks) that myself, Dr. Chako, Miami Don and Bammer were going to pimp. I feel bad that I am leaving Dr. Chako hangin' and that we won't be able to meet. I remember signing that guitar that The Wife and Instant Tragedy arranged and had hoped to meet the man himself. I know there will be other opportunities, and that's just the way it will have to be.
As time progressed it became more and more clear that BamBam and a few others were not going to be heading out to Vegas and I began to question how serious I truly was about going this December. I really really wanted to go, because I knew I would have an even better time this year (almost tough to imagine, really) knowing all the great people that were going, that much better.
There is so much that I wanted to do, so many things that I said I would try. I wanted to be more outgoing and not so shy as I was the first time around. I mean don't get me wrong, that was the real Schaubs, but when you get to know me... or should I say, when I let myself get to know you, it opens up a whole different level of conversation and laughs. It's just the way I am.
I'm not proud of it sometimes, but it's me. I wanted to play in the mixed game at the MGM, something I never did the first time I was there. I just hung out in the background and played 1/2NL for way too long. I wanted to learn Pai Gow, even though I again, sat in the background last time and watched BWOP, F-train and HighonPoker grind out a late night session that first night I was there.
Maybe I was just wandering and reflecting?
I just read BWOP's latest post, which is partially responsible for this post. I felt obligated to make this long overdue announcement. I just wish I could be writing about the game of golf that I was looking forward to playing...
Raging with RecessRampage would have definitely been a highlight. Going for a couple of wicked dinners and slingin' some chips in a mixed game or even just pounding some beers would have been great. Hopefully he'll make a trip out my way in 2009 (anyone else??). Do it.
All these people were very excepting and extremely kind. I really wish I would have gotten more involved in those little activites like craps (why not eh) and some overdrinking at the IP Hooker bar. That is where you can meet a bunch of people you read on a daily basis. Astin, GCox, Kat, Iggy... there are so many other beauties that I can't even list them all.
I wanted to hang out with Dr. Paul, even if just for a bit. He's actually one of the few bloggers that I've met on more than one occasion. Both times in Vegas, of course. Change100, Derek, Al etc all great people to shoot the shit with. I wanted to buy Al a shot and talk about nothing.
Playing in the Venetian tournament is a must if you are there. It's such a good time and the table banter is worth the buyin alone. Make sure you bring some sort of an orignal bounty prize. It doesn't have to be expensive, just something from you.
Sports betting (I'd guess at the IP) is also a must if you are a football fan. Being Canadian, it cracks me up to see all of the bloggers in their NFL gear cheering for their home team. Grinding out those parlays and overhearing the discussions of who to pick in the afternoon games while downing another beer and slice of IP pizza.
It's a shame, really. I didn't think there was any chance that I'd miss out. But it's now a reality. I'll blame part of it on myself, no doubt. I didn't book anything in advance, or commit like so many others did a few months back. Looking at the flights, they just keep getting cheaper and cheaper... except the Canadian dollar keeps taking a beating. Tag on another 15%. Super sweet. So if you are there, just think of me, because I know I will be thinking of all of you. Damn, now I am making myself jealous... sniff*.
Ok so there are other reasons. The most important one being my mother's health. Apparantly she had one of those serious things called a heart attack about a year ago and didn't know it at the time. It happened right after a surgery, and she chalked it up as a chest pain. I guess it's not as obvious for woman as it is for men. Needless to say, this past week has been kinda stressful and has got me thinking.
Thinking a lot.
There is so much to say, yet I'm not sure what the point is. I need to make some changes in my life, I need to get things straight. I need to spend more time with the ones that matter most. This thing with my mom has put some perspective on my life. Her worrying about my health is not something she should be doing. Now that she is sitting in a hospital bed she has a lot of time to think. I know I need to go to the doctor and get my heart checked again and confirm that everything is ok.
Not for me, for her, for Lola, for my sister and the rest.
Poker is on the backburner until further notice. Last night was the last straw. I'm not playing well, and even if I do I am not being rewarded. It happens, it's part of the life session blah blah blah. I need a break and I need one bad. So me not going to Vegas is actually a good thing at this point and that is the way I am going to accept it. I'm playing poker at the worst possible times. After drinking, usually with little focus and very little game plan. Not even close to the correct frame of mind to show any sort of positive results, that's a guarantee.
Instead of just talking about it, it's time do something about it. Starting tonight.
Anyway, I really am feeling shitty about not making it to the Vegas gathering. It was never my intention to pull a no show. I hate no shows. I always thought it would work out. I was wrong.
Or should I just say, things change.
I need to be part of that change, and that is what I am taking care of over the last month of 2008.
So have a blast without me, and be lucky that I'm not gunning for your bounty prize or kicking your ass in RPS side bets.
Cheers!
26.11.08
I aint no hypocrite
No Mookie for me tonight, dare I say next week as well?
I doubt it, but tonight will be a good start in taking that break that I so badly need. No poker either live or online until at least this Saturday where I will be obligated to play for a buddies stag party. We are actually planning a little indoor go-karting as well. I'm not a big racing type of a guy, but I have to say that when you are out on that track with 11 of your closest buddies it creates quit a rush. I mean I suck at the racing part, but I just do my thing and stay out of the way of the real keener types. You know the ones, they are all about the stats and will try and matchup against guys like me who they know are weak tights when it comes to racing.
So anyway, no Mookie. It's break time and that is that.
I need to reset my mindset. HighonPoker always seems to spell it out a lot better than I do and his post about the measures he has taken to reset seem to be working for him. Which is great.
Everyone is different. Maybe next time I need a reset I'll give something else a try. Until then, I'll just stick with the guarantee - no poker equals no suckouts, no poor plays on my part and no dwindling bankroll.
Done and done.
I doubt it, but tonight will be a good start in taking that break that I so badly need. No poker either live or online until at least this Saturday where I will be obligated to play for a buddies stag party. We are actually planning a little indoor go-karting as well. I'm not a big racing type of a guy, but I have to say that when you are out on that track with 11 of your closest buddies it creates quit a rush. I mean I suck at the racing part, but I just do my thing and stay out of the way of the real keener types. You know the ones, they are all about the stats and will try and matchup against guys like me who they know are weak tights when it comes to racing.
So anyway, no Mookie. It's break time and that is that.
I need to reset my mindset. HighonPoker always seems to spell it out a lot better than I do and his post about the measures he has taken to reset seem to be working for him. Which is great.
Everyone is different. Maybe next time I need a reset I'll give something else a try. Until then, I'll just stick with the guarantee - no poker equals no suckouts, no poor plays on my part and no dwindling bankroll.
Done and done.
25.11.08
Poker'd out, Golf is still my game
I need to take a break. That is the only solution I can come up with. I am in one of those ruts where nothing seems to be going my way. I won’t get into the details here, but basically I am just getting fed up with the way I am playing (poorly) and the luck I am getting (none). I know it happens to everyone, and I usually tell those people to take a break.
So I will take my own advice and take it easy for a while. Especially in live games, where the majority of this frustration stems from.
I played over at the FCPC with an old skool friend of mine, his brother, and another buddy. It was a $120 superstack tournament with a great structure. 75K starting stack and 40 minute levels. The only real hand I had all night (pocket kings) got taken down by pocket aces, which were held by Will. I avoided not going broke, which I was somewhat proud of, but it left me short stacked and when I shoved my 17BB in with pocket 5’s I was called by A-10, which was also held by Willy and an Ace spikes the flop and IGH. I guess he wanted my bounty… and bad. $20 bounties makes it interesting because it always makes people want to call “just for the bounty.” It is a frustrating thing to be a part of when you know you should just be taking a pot down pre-flop and then get called anyway.
The best hand of the night was a beauty (see Simon's take over at the FCPC blog). It involved Fuel, so you know it was a good one. He had been folding his above average stack for what seemed like an eternity (I’d guess at least an hour) while the bubble was quickly approaching and everyone was tightening up. Then it happened. Fuel was dealt KK and raised it from the button. The SB pushed his stack and Will’s bro had already limped with AA. He re-raises and Fuel pushes. Fuel freaks when he finds out the cooler he is now involved in, and the fact that he had been folding for so long didn’t help either. It’s a three way all in flop with two bounties on the line. The flop comes A-4-A. Flopped quads take out both players. It was pretty sick and well worth the wait as I had been sticking around to see a big hand go down (I was a rail bird for longer than I played). Good times nonetheless, especially since I got to see Will and his brother chop first and second place for about $500 each.
But man poker has got me all fucked up. I just don’t have a positive feeling heading into games right now. This is where my head is at these days. It’s in the wrong frame of mind and I can’t do much about it, except take a break. So it’s on.
I played golf on Sunday, and it was exactly what I needed. It was a very very sunny day out, and I couldn’t help but play in the snowman and test myself once again. This time, I actually arrived with some time to spare so I hit a warm up bucket and also hit a few practice putts. I finished the round 3 under and won low gross. I also made a deuce for a bit more cake.
It’s just another reminder of how much more I love playing golf than I do poker. You just can’t beat being out on a nice sunny day with a couple of beers on the back nine, knocking down pins and converting birdie putts for cash. It’s completely within your control, there is no river card.
Sure there are nerves, and that is the biggest thing for me. In fact, early on in the round I managed to drive the green (well I was green side, pin high) and then followed that up by three putting my birdie putt from less than two feet for bogie! It happens, but it was completely my fault. Which is actually comforting at this point.
That is the big difference between golf and poker for me. There is no one, and nothing to blame. There is some luck to golf, I will admit. But nothing like poker. I’ve written about this before, and this weekend was just another confirmation.
I’ve come to the conclusion that the poker gods, and the golf gods are not related.
Hopefully I can stay away from the mookie, but it’s the one tournament a week that I actually enjoy. I guess I will just see how it goes…
I’m such a hypocrite sometimes…
So I will take my own advice and take it easy for a while. Especially in live games, where the majority of this frustration stems from.
I played over at the FCPC with an old skool friend of mine, his brother, and another buddy. It was a $120 superstack tournament with a great structure. 75K starting stack and 40 minute levels. The only real hand I had all night (pocket kings) got taken down by pocket aces, which were held by Will. I avoided not going broke, which I was somewhat proud of, but it left me short stacked and when I shoved my 17BB in with pocket 5’s I was called by A-10, which was also held by Willy and an Ace spikes the flop and IGH. I guess he wanted my bounty… and bad. $20 bounties makes it interesting because it always makes people want to call “just for the bounty.” It is a frustrating thing to be a part of when you know you should just be taking a pot down pre-flop and then get called anyway.
The best hand of the night was a beauty (see Simon's take over at the FCPC blog). It involved Fuel, so you know it was a good one. He had been folding his above average stack for what seemed like an eternity (I’d guess at least an hour) while the bubble was quickly approaching and everyone was tightening up. Then it happened. Fuel was dealt KK and raised it from the button. The SB pushed his stack and Will’s bro had already limped with AA. He re-raises and Fuel pushes. Fuel freaks when he finds out the cooler he is now involved in, and the fact that he had been folding for so long didn’t help either. It’s a three way all in flop with two bounties on the line. The flop comes A-4-A. Flopped quads take out both players. It was pretty sick and well worth the wait as I had been sticking around to see a big hand go down (I was a rail bird for longer than I played). Good times nonetheless, especially since I got to see Will and his brother chop first and second place for about $500 each.
But man poker has got me all fucked up. I just don’t have a positive feeling heading into games right now. This is where my head is at these days. It’s in the wrong frame of mind and I can’t do much about it, except take a break. So it’s on.
I played golf on Sunday, and it was exactly what I needed. It was a very very sunny day out, and I couldn’t help but play in the snowman and test myself once again. This time, I actually arrived with some time to spare so I hit a warm up bucket and also hit a few practice putts. I finished the round 3 under and won low gross. I also made a deuce for a bit more cake.
It’s just another reminder of how much more I love playing golf than I do poker. You just can’t beat being out on a nice sunny day with a couple of beers on the back nine, knocking down pins and converting birdie putts for cash. It’s completely within your control, there is no river card.
Sure there are nerves, and that is the biggest thing for me. In fact, early on in the round I managed to drive the green (well I was green side, pin high) and then followed that up by three putting my birdie putt from less than two feet for bogie! It happens, but it was completely my fault. Which is actually comforting at this point.
That is the big difference between golf and poker for me. There is no one, and nothing to blame. There is some luck to golf, I will admit. But nothing like poker. I’ve written about this before, and this weekend was just another confirmation.
I’ve come to the conclusion that the poker gods, and the golf gods are not related.
Hopefully I can stay away from the mookie, but it’s the one tournament a week that I actually enjoy. I guess I will just see how it goes…
I’m such a hypocrite sometimes…
17.11.08
BCPC
I played in the BCPC $500+50 donkament today at the Rock today. The plan was to write about how I took it down, spread the sixty grand all over my bed and rolled around it continuously as I screamed like a school girl... but of course, that is not the case.
That whole saying that goes something like "you've gotta win the races to go deep" is not a saying, it's a fact of poker.
With a 6k starting stack and blinds starting at 25/50, 30 minute levels, I knew that I was going to have to double up within the first two hours if I wanted to go deep, let alone make the money. Just over $1,100 for 54th place with 550 runners to start the day.
My last hand before the first break, 2 hours into the tournament, I looked down at AKo. This was the second time I was dealt this hand. The first timeI had to fold to a flop bet when I whiffed. The guy showed his set of ducks. My read felt on, and I was well focused.
I was actually feeling great heading into the tournament. Usually I get a bit nervous, my heart starts racing and I start doubting myself, wondering why I decided to sign up in the first place.
This time it was different.
UTG limped and I was in the cutoff with AKo as mentioned. Two limpers and there was already 900 in the pot before it got to me. I thought about putting in a raise of about 1000 chips but then realized it equaled over 20% of my stack. Raise folding would have been weak, so I decided to shove my 24 BB's. UTG thought for about a minute as I stared off into space.
He called and flipped over pocket 10's.
Let me say that again. He limp called with 10's for his whole stack (I had 300 more chips than he did). We were off to the races and I couldn't catch.
It was depressing and I beat myself up about it all the way home. Shove with AKo that early in the tournament? 24BB shove, was that an overshove? Did I really just do that? I kept kicking myself and wondering if it was the right play.
The more I think about it (and talk it out), the more I know I made the right decision. Sure I could have just raised preflop, seen the flop and folded (I guess shoving is the other option, and the flop did have a Queen on it). I feel like I have progressed beyond that though. At the time I knew that I needed to get some chips, and fast. The structure becomes such a crap shoot that you need to just take a chance sooner rather than later.
When I sat down I didn't recognize anyone at my table. I am not that up to date on the "who's who" of poker fame. A couple of guys started to talk to this one guy who was wearing a jacket with his name on the sleeve. He was one of those guys you could tell was a pro, just based on his table mannerisms. He arrived about 5 minutes late and got respect from some other players right away. He had a routine, and he was very well polished. It's something that I have been working on lately, so I was paying attention to how he was protecting his hand, how he was putting in raises etc. In that sense, I learned a few new things, which is always nice.
So anyway, his name is Marc Karam and he was still wearing his jacket. The jacket had a Canadian Flag on the sleeve and below that his name was spelled "Mark Karam." I wonder which one is a typo... I also wondered, at the time, if it was poker related or not. I mean really, who wears a jacket with there full name listed on the sleeve. I really hope it was a gift.
He limped from the SB and there were four players to the flop. The flop came out 6-Q-2 rainbow. Marc checks his SB and the BB leads out for 500 chips (almost a pot size bet). One fold, and the cutoff calls 500. Marc, took his time, thought about his options, and min-raised to 1000. The BB folds and the cutoff re-raises to 3000.
Marc pushes all in and the CO insta-calls! Marc flips over pocket 6's for middle set. The CO flips over pocket 2's for bottom set. Two cards to come and the CO shouts out "come on deuce!"
Deuce on the river. A one outter on the river and Marc jumps out of his chair in disgust. He was covered and left immediately without saying anything to anyone. It was pretty gross to see that happen live, but I'm sure he's had his share of suckouts as well.
The same guy in the CO later hits a one outter to take another guy out 20 minutes later. Maybe it is destiny.
At the break I remember the one outter dude say to his buddy that he had about 26K in chips. The average was about 7500 after the first break and the blinds were at 150/300. My final hand I threw in my scraps when I was dealt KJc... which lost to pocket tens (of course lol).
You've gotta win the races if you want to go deep...
And hit one outters... those are always nice.
That whole saying that goes something like "you've gotta win the races to go deep" is not a saying, it's a fact of poker.
With a 6k starting stack and blinds starting at 25/50, 30 minute levels, I knew that I was going to have to double up within the first two hours if I wanted to go deep, let alone make the money. Just over $1,100 for 54th place with 550 runners to start the day.
My last hand before the first break, 2 hours into the tournament, I looked down at AKo. This was the second time I was dealt this hand. The first timeI had to fold to a flop bet when I whiffed. The guy showed his set of ducks. My read felt on, and I was well focused.
I was actually feeling great heading into the tournament. Usually I get a bit nervous, my heart starts racing and I start doubting myself, wondering why I decided to sign up in the first place.
This time it was different.
UTG limped and I was in the cutoff with AKo as mentioned. Two limpers and there was already 900 in the pot before it got to me. I thought about putting in a raise of about 1000 chips but then realized it equaled over 20% of my stack. Raise folding would have been weak, so I decided to shove my 24 BB's. UTG thought for about a minute as I stared off into space.
He called and flipped over pocket 10's.
Let me say that again. He limp called with 10's for his whole stack (I had 300 more chips than he did). We were off to the races and I couldn't catch.
It was depressing and I beat myself up about it all the way home. Shove with AKo that early in the tournament? 24BB shove, was that an overshove? Did I really just do that? I kept kicking myself and wondering if it was the right play.
The more I think about it (and talk it out), the more I know I made the right decision. Sure I could have just raised preflop, seen the flop and folded (I guess shoving is the other option, and the flop did have a Queen on it). I feel like I have progressed beyond that though. At the time I knew that I needed to get some chips, and fast. The structure becomes such a crap shoot that you need to just take a chance sooner rather than later.
When I sat down I didn't recognize anyone at my table. I am not that up to date on the "who's who" of poker fame. A couple of guys started to talk to this one guy who was wearing a jacket with his name on the sleeve. He was one of those guys you could tell was a pro, just based on his table mannerisms. He arrived about 5 minutes late and got respect from some other players right away. He had a routine, and he was very well polished. It's something that I have been working on lately, so I was paying attention to how he was protecting his hand, how he was putting in raises etc. In that sense, I learned a few new things, which is always nice.
So anyway, his name is Marc Karam and he was still wearing his jacket. The jacket had a Canadian Flag on the sleeve and below that his name was spelled "Mark Karam." I wonder which one is a typo... I also wondered, at the time, if it was poker related or not. I mean really, who wears a jacket with there full name listed on the sleeve. I really hope it was a gift.
He limped from the SB and there were four players to the flop. The flop came out 6-Q-2 rainbow. Marc checks his SB and the BB leads out for 500 chips (almost a pot size bet). One fold, and the cutoff calls 500. Marc, took his time, thought about his options, and min-raised to 1000. The BB folds and the cutoff re-raises to 3000.
Marc pushes all in and the CO insta-calls! Marc flips over pocket 6's for middle set. The CO flips over pocket 2's for bottom set. Two cards to come and the CO shouts out "come on deuce!"
Deuce on the river. A one outter on the river and Marc jumps out of his chair in disgust. He was covered and left immediately without saying anything to anyone. It was pretty gross to see that happen live, but I'm sure he's had his share of suckouts as well.
The same guy in the CO later hits a one outter to take another guy out 20 minutes later. Maybe it is destiny.
At the break I remember the one outter dude say to his buddy that he had about 26K in chips. The average was about 7500 after the first break and the blinds were at 150/300. My final hand I threw in my scraps when I was dealt KJc... which lost to pocket tens (of course lol).
You've gotta win the races if you want to go deep...
And hit one outters... those are always nice.
13.11.08
The haircut, the fundraiser and the mookie
My hair was in need of a cut and the original plan was for my friend Autumn to come over at 5pm and get it done before the two tournaments I had registered for started. Actually, the first plan was to get it cut yesterday, but she had to postpone. I called her on my way home and left her a message. I expected to meet her at my place as planned. She called me back and wanted to reschedule to 8pm instead.
No problem… what problem?
I mean really, I had the fund raiser tournament starting at 6pm and the mookie starting at 7. The new plan was to play both and do well. Unexpectedly, I got lucky at the weirdest times. For example, before my cut (which started at about 8:45) we hung out with Lola and watched the Canucks game for a bit (they lost 2-1 in an overtime shootout – yet another distraction) and I continued to play poker at both tables.
I ran very well, and felt like I was playing tight, solid poker. After all, I was two tabling and about to get my hair cut. I had mega patience going on.
Before I knew what was happening, I was sitting in a chair with a cape on. I had the wireless mouse underneath and I was really focused on both tournaments. The charity tournament had Andy Bloch playing in it (as well as three other Full Tilt Pros) and he was hitting flops and had the chip lead every time I would look up… I will still getting my hairs trimmed etc. (In fact, as I write some of this tonight, I realize that I have not even looked in a mirror yet and it...)
Anyway, apparently it is hard to play to final tables at once. At least it was for me. Not too often that Schaubs does that, let me tell ya…
Did I mention I was also getting my hair cut during both money bubbles? I haven’t even looked at the hand history, and for the first time in a long time I didn’t turn on Holdem Manager. All I kept saying to myself (and the girls) was “I can’t believe I am playing at two final tables while getting a hair cut!”
It was surreal, it felt so weird yet I was so focused. It felt great.
There were some recognizable bloggers at the charity final table with me. I had a blast, but to tell you the truth it was hard to give my full attention near the end. No excuses though, I am happy with the way it worked out. By the time I realized there were five left in the charity game, Andy Bloch had been eliminated. Screen shot shows that when you highlight a pro, his name turns red…
I did not know that.
I kept grinding the mookie and got lucky a few more times I’m sure. I had some good cards which is the main reason for my double final table night, but also made some nice plays that I was proud of. My bad plays were too magnified and I obviously have a lot more to learn.
I always will.
Eventually we got down to heads up. The cut had ended about 10 minutes earlier and Autumn had to run as it was getting late (did I mention her middle name is leaf? If I told you her last name you would laugh your ass off, but I just can’t do that here and now, maybe if you ask me in person). I pulled my hairy self up to the kitchen table and tried to concentrate on winning my first Mookie… It felt like I was in a dream world. It was as if I didn’t even realized that I was playing heads up. So many things were going on, and now all of the sudden I had the opportunity to fully focus on the heads up match and it just felt different. It was like I couldn’t focus, even though it was the quietest it had been in hours.
Then something happened.
I lost my connection. It wasn’t the first time, but it was the first time in about an hour. I quickly did the usual which was to restart the poker program and log in again. It disconnected one more time and then I was back. I think I had lost my connection after trying to bluff the river for the third time… smart.
Losing focus quickly, I logged back in and noticed that my opponent had raised my BB and wondered if he was waiting for me or trying to steal my blinds… Or, did he noticed that I clicked the “I’m back button” in time. I’m not really sure when I clicked it but I suppose I could check.
No excuses. He raised 2.5x and I held A8o. I just called and the flop had an ace. I check raised and he re-raised. I called, and I know I should have folded, but I called. 25K more and the blinds were still very small in relation to my stack. I wish I could take it back, but I can’t. He had AQo and he played it well.
Just like that I was drawing to three outs and I couldn’t catch one last time.
It’s all such a blur though. It was such a rush and still such a blur.
I'll get that Mookie one of these days, as long as I can get a hair cut while playing heads up...
No problem… what problem?
I mean really, I had the fund raiser tournament starting at 6pm and the mookie starting at 7. The new plan was to play both and do well. Unexpectedly, I got lucky at the weirdest times. For example, before my cut (which started at about 8:45) we hung out with Lola and watched the Canucks game for a bit (they lost 2-1 in an overtime shootout – yet another distraction) and I continued to play poker at both tables.
I ran very well, and felt like I was playing tight, solid poker. After all, I was two tabling and about to get my hair cut. I had mega patience going on.
Before I knew what was happening, I was sitting in a chair with a cape on. I had the wireless mouse underneath and I was really focused on both tournaments. The charity tournament had Andy Bloch playing in it (as well as three other Full Tilt Pros) and he was hitting flops and had the chip lead every time I would look up… I will still getting my hairs trimmed etc. (In fact, as I write some of this tonight, I realize that I have not even looked in a mirror yet and it...)
Anyway, apparently it is hard to play to final tables at once. At least it was for me. Not too often that Schaubs does that, let me tell ya…
Did I mention I was also getting my hair cut during both money bubbles? I haven’t even looked at the hand history, and for the first time in a long time I didn’t turn on Holdem Manager. All I kept saying to myself (and the girls) was “I can’t believe I am playing at two final tables while getting a hair cut!”
It was surreal, it felt so weird yet I was so focused. It felt great.
There were some recognizable bloggers at the charity final table with me. I had a blast, but to tell you the truth it was hard to give my full attention near the end. No excuses though, I am happy with the way it worked out. By the time I realized there were five left in the charity game, Andy Bloch had been eliminated. Screen shot shows that when you highlight a pro, his name turns red…
I did not know that.
I kept grinding the mookie and got lucky a few more times I’m sure. I had some good cards which is the main reason for my double final table night, but also made some nice plays that I was proud of. My bad plays were too magnified and I obviously have a lot more to learn.
I always will.
Eventually we got down to heads up. The cut had ended about 10 minutes earlier and Autumn had to run as it was getting late (did I mention her middle name is leaf? If I told you her last name you would laugh your ass off, but I just can’t do that here and now, maybe if you ask me in person). I pulled my hairy self up to the kitchen table and tried to concentrate on winning my first Mookie… It felt like I was in a dream world. It was as if I didn’t even realized that I was playing heads up. So many things were going on, and now all of the sudden I had the opportunity to fully focus on the heads up match and it just felt different. It was like I couldn’t focus, even though it was the quietest it had been in hours.
Then something happened.
I lost my connection. It wasn’t the first time, but it was the first time in about an hour. I quickly did the usual which was to restart the poker program and log in again. It disconnected one more time and then I was back. I think I had lost my connection after trying to bluff the river for the third time… smart.
Losing focus quickly, I logged back in and noticed that my opponent had raised my BB and wondered if he was waiting for me or trying to steal my blinds… Or, did he noticed that I clicked the “I’m back button” in time. I’m not really sure when I clicked it but I suppose I could check.
No excuses. He raised 2.5x and I held A8o. I just called and the flop had an ace. I check raised and he re-raised. I called, and I know I should have folded, but I called. 25K more and the blinds were still very small in relation to my stack. I wish I could take it back, but I can’t. He had AQo and he played it well.
Just like that I was drawing to three outs and I couldn’t catch one last time.
It’s all such a blur though. It was such a rush and still such a blur.
I'll get that Mookie one of these days, as long as I can get a hair cut while playing heads up...
12.11.08
An unimpressive Final WSOP Table
Did they just jam the final table of 9 players into a a 1.5 hour tv show? Is that what all the hype was about? It took me longer to follow it on Tao on early Sunday morning then it did to watch it on the boob tube.
Congrats to Peter Eastgate, he ran well which is mandatory. I am glad he beat hellmuth's 19 year old record as the youngest ever, it makes Eastgate's victory that much sweeter.
I'm still in shock that they jammed all this hype into a one night tv show... I really think they could have gotten more out of it if they had the time to edit it a bit more.... say... 4 extra months maybe? It will be interesting to read everyone's opinion and whether the WSOP and the Harrah's group consider it a success...
Is more to come later? Highlights? Out takes? Additional back ground stories?
I doubt it.
I enjoyed reading about it much more than I did watching it that is for sure... but maybe that is because I already knew the outcome?
Congrats to Peter Eastgate, he ran well which is mandatory. I am glad he beat hellmuth's 19 year old record as the youngest ever, it makes Eastgate's victory that much sweeter.
I'm still in shock that they jammed all this hype into a one night tv show... I really think they could have gotten more out of it if they had the time to edit it a bit more.... say... 4 extra months maybe? It will be interesting to read everyone's opinion and whether the WSOP and the Harrah's group consider it a success...
Is more to come later? Highlights? Out takes? Additional back ground stories?
I doubt it.
I enjoyed reading about it much more than I did watching it that is for sure... but maybe that is because I already knew the outcome?
7.11.08
Bodog can suck my Trophy
I can't truly express how deeply frustrated I am to not be granted the opportunity to play in the Bodog Series that is going on right now. I mean seriously Bodog... get it together!
Why can't Canadian's play at Bodog? It makes no sense whatsoever. They must know that there is a demand for it. They must know that Canadians have their finger on the pulse and know that Bodog is one of the top sites around right now. Maybe Nadia can explain.
It makes my blood boil I tell ya! I am constantly reminded of this fun little series because I have numerous blogger friends that are playing this series each Tuesday and Thursday. It pains be to know I could be donating each and every week, and yet no one wants my money.
I'd also surely dump hundreds of dollars in online betting there too. I woulda taken Obama to win in a heartbeat I know that much. Football bets, hockey, you name it I would bet on it.
But nooooooooooooooooooo, I am Canadian, I am screwed. It's only been a year now... can you tell I am bitter?
I won't stop linking them though, that would just be down right mean!
----
Having said that, tonight is trophy night. Or should I say I am going to the "Champions Dinner" tonight. Yep, Lola and I will be heading to the club this evening where the membership will recognize all of the winners over the past year and hand out the long awaited hardware (and golf bag).
There are also awards for hole in ones (none for me in my lifetime remember) and other fun stuff like "shoot your age" trophies. I'd really like to win one of those one day, but I am probably a good 40 years away for that... and even then I would have to shoot even par. I look forward to pulling it off though, hopefully more than a few times.
Trophy night is one of the reasons I play in so many club events - to get to trophy night, to get the free meal and most of all - the hardware!
My buddy and I always say "If you don't get to trophy night then you've had a shitty year."
And it's true. Making trophy night is a must each year, and tonight will be even more special because I will be taking home the big one. The Championship.
Why can't Canadian's play at Bodog? It makes no sense whatsoever. They must know that there is a demand for it. They must know that Canadians have their finger on the pulse and know that Bodog is one of the top sites around right now. Maybe Nadia can explain.
It makes my blood boil I tell ya! I am constantly reminded of this fun little series because I have numerous blogger friends that are playing this series each Tuesday and Thursday. It pains be to know I could be donating each and every week, and yet no one wants my money.
I'd also surely dump hundreds of dollars in online betting there too. I woulda taken Obama to win in a heartbeat I know that much. Football bets, hockey, you name it I would bet on it.
But nooooooooooooooooooo, I am Canadian, I am screwed. It's only been a year now... can you tell I am bitter?
I won't stop linking them though, that would just be down right mean!
----
Having said that, tonight is trophy night. Or should I say I am going to the "Champions Dinner" tonight. Yep, Lola and I will be heading to the club this evening where the membership will recognize all of the winners over the past year and hand out the long awaited hardware (and golf bag).
There are also awards for hole in ones (none for me in my lifetime remember) and other fun stuff like "shoot your age" trophies. I'd really like to win one of those one day, but I am probably a good 40 years away for that... and even then I would have to shoot even par. I look forward to pulling it off though, hopefully more than a few times.
Trophy night is one of the reasons I play in so many club events - to get to trophy night, to get the free meal and most of all - the hardware!
My buddy and I always say "If you don't get to trophy night then you've had a shitty year."
And it's true. Making trophy night is a must each year, and tonight will be even more special because I will be taking home the big one. The Championship.
6.11.08
I am glad Tiffany Michelle is not at the WSOP final table
I can't stand her. Not only is she ugly, she is stupid. Seriously. How annoying would it be to have to listen to her during the November 9.
I guess I could cut her some slack, but I won't. How the heck did she make it that far?
Obviously I am partially joking here because what she did was great for poker, but seriously do you have to be such a bitch about it? Oh and let's start a bunch of sponsorship drama while we are at it. Poor Tony G, I feel for ya bud.
Why wasn't she CHEERING for the other lady to make it deep instead of hoping that she busted as soon as possible. She would run over with the hopes of seeing this other girl go busto so she could be the "last girl standing."
So stupid. Eat another french fry.
So selfish, so childish. I remember reading all about it at Tao of Poker's live blog but I didn't think that it was THAT BAD.
I don't normally rant like this about someone so you gotta know that I was really EXTREMLY annoyed with her. When she busted out I screamed and cheered, I couldn't have been happier.
Oh, and what about when she called CLOCK on the guy to her right... and she wasn't even involved in the hand. What a look he gave her. I wish I could have read his mind there and then, it would have been classic stuff.
Ok fine, she is a little bit hot. But that is it, she still sucks.
I guess I could cut her some slack, but I won't. How the heck did she make it that far?
Obviously I am partially joking here because what she did was great for poker, but seriously do you have to be such a bitch about it? Oh and let's start a bunch of sponsorship drama while we are at it. Poor Tony G, I feel for ya bud.
Why wasn't she CHEERING for the other lady to make it deep instead of hoping that she busted as soon as possible. She would run over with the hopes of seeing this other girl go busto so she could be the "last girl standing."
So stupid. Eat another french fry.
So selfish, so childish. I remember reading all about it at Tao of Poker's live blog but I didn't think that it was THAT BAD.
I don't normally rant like this about someone so you gotta know that I was really EXTREMLY annoyed with her. When she busted out I screamed and cheered, I couldn't have been happier.
Oh, and what about when she called CLOCK on the guy to her right... and she wasn't even involved in the hand. What a look he gave her. I wish I could have read his mind there and then, it would have been classic stuff.
Ok fine, she is a little bit hot. But that is it, she still sucks.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
