The Countdown is on

Las Vegas in t-minus 29 days.

I always look forward to our trip to Vegas every year, but this year, maybe a little more than ever.

When Mrs. Chipstack and I planned our trips in the past, there was always the opportunity to visit Mom & Dad. Well, the family aspect of Las Vegas has changed over the last year. Pops passed away June 5th, 2008, and Mom has since moved back to Chicago. That means that, for the first time since 1998, my only family in Vegas is extended family. While it would be nice to see them, it isn't as high on the priority list this time around. My wife and I haven't had a trip out there where we were totally on our own to do what we wanted to do. It always involved visiting the folks, helping them take care of things around the house that they couldn't do themselves. Running errands and the like to ease their day-to-day. I certainly didn't mind it, but I know that it was a bit of a drag for us. It wasn't a true "vacation." That changes this time around.

We'll still be going out with a group of poker players--our very good friends. That is a part of the trip that is enjoyable. This year, though, the wife and I will be able to just get away. I know I am looking forward to that very much.

Have only played a little since the last update, due in large part to a busy time at work. Season 5 of the league begins next weekend, and our membership numbers are down. It's likely the result of our struggling economy, and that's too bad. Some good people are out of work, and poker just isn't high on their list. I hope that will change in the future, as I hate seeing my friends in that kind of situation. No matter what, they remain friends, and I wish them the best.

Been following the WSOP quite closely this year. Maybe it's because I still thirst for the chance to be out there for the entire run of the Series. I hunger for the chance to battle for bracelets, playing for high stakes, and doing all I can to join the ranks of champions in poker's signature events. Right now, I know it's a pipedream. Financially, it's just not happening. I continue to keep that dream alive, though. Studying the tv broadcasts for any possible clue as to how these players are so successful. Reading anything I can get my hands on to improve my game. It's a constant thing in my head. I want to be better. I want to be able to compete on that stage. When the time comes, I want to be ready.

I often wonder what would happen to me if I was ever able to be a circuit player. I know that it would only be possible if I had sufficient bankroll to afford the travel, accommodations, and of course, buy-ins for all of it. It would have to be such that my wife would be able to travel with me, and our kids would be looked after. It might even involve a relocation to a place where we could be closer to family. It would involve a lot of changes, for sure. As much as I would love the chance to do it, I could never make that move without my wife. Never. That is non-negotiable.

So, for the time being, trips to Vegas once a year with my honey will have to do. I love that city. I love it's "Open 24 Hours" feeling. It's a close 2nd to my home town. Maybe one day, it will be my home away from home.

On the workout front--day 2 of my dedication to getting back in shape ended horribly. I re-injured my knee, and have been shelved since. The strength is returning to it, so I hope to get back into it slowly. I hate that I got hurt, because I loved doing the workouts. Problem is, when you fold your knee, and it feels and sounds the same as the first time your hurt it, you tend to not push things too quickly. I won't be pushing it, since I need my wheels for vacation--which will involve some golf, too.

Good luck and good cards,
~M