oN a miSsioN.....

"Champions in any field have made a habit of doing what others find boring or uncomfortable" ~ unknown

2011-05-03T16:00:00.000-07:00

I can’t believe we’re in May! How did this happen? As crazy busy as I am, May brings on a LOT of pool. A LOT of it. And I’m stoked!

My pool calendar in May has me booked 22 days out of 31. That leaves me 9 days to get all non-related pool things done ~ ppsssh, as if! On top of my full-time job and my other full-time job I’m sitting here wondering how best to organize my life, if that’s even possible. Let’s just say that my goal for tonight (after league of course) is to get my damn house in order since that’s been neglected for awhile now (oh right – due to pool).

The consumption of pool is sometimes greater than what one would call normal. But isn’t it? It comes with the territory, right? I mean don’t we all who indulge, indulge whole heartedly? I know I do. My last post was “somewhat” J geared around how I’m starting to view other players…..and the everyday learning process is a bit brutal at times. I’ve also realized that some of the players who I know and play with really don’t see the pool world as I do. I’m so engaged, I used to think everyone who played was.

Think again captain…..

I found myself having a conversation with a fellow pool acquaintance about pool. This is a bright individual. Who plays a lot of pool. Who has been playing a LONG time. As the conversation grew and we began to talk about miscellaneous tournaments around the country and some of the pro players, I realized this person had no clue what I was talking about. This person went along for a bit and slowly would change verbiage to slide into something more general in the pool world. I was a bit lost and confused as to what was really going on…..and it got me thinking.

Am I so involved into something that I love, that it could be called an addiction? Or obsession? That I could possibly be a bit insane to be so infatuated with this world? See, that fact that I’m nowhere near and expert in this field, but that I love it so, seems so natural to me. I don’t think twice about it. Its become a lifestyle. I twiddle my thumbs, bored out of my mind when league is on break. Or when there isn’t some tournament somewhere. I’ve been playing in the same measly Saturday night tournament at a home bar for years now – since before I really knew how to play. I never questioned myself about what I was really doing.

After this conversation, I began to look at myself (and I’m still contemplating) and see what it really is that I love about this world that only a few know. This world, where outsiders look in and think we’re all nuts.

“It’s just a game, you’re so intense”.
“Well why not? You’re so intense about your _____ (fill in your hobby here).”
“Yeah, but I don’t let it consume me”
"OH. I do".

you think you're bad ass..... you're not!

2011-04-18T16:28:00.000-07:00

Once again, all intentions to jot down my thoughts is on my to-do list….it just never seems to happen.

A bunch has happened since my last post, but I won’t bore you with the details. Let’s break down it in quickie…

-watched a weekend full of pool with big boys from all over. Amazing pool, ice cold beer, friends old and new, and hell of a lot learning about who to trust and who not to. (That’s a long story – saved for another day). A big thanks to omgwtf for buying my last adult beverage of the weekend….it helped cancel all the noise made by idiot conversation about every shot!

-played in the women’s annual charity tournament. Played great the first day and was 2 and on the second day. Lessons learned: #1 – Play your game and no one else’s. They wouldn’t do it for you. #2 – even your closest “friends” will talk shit when they lose to you. #3 – People will make excuses for EVERY aspect of their game when they play like ass, and it really just sounds like f’n whinning….tell people to shut the F up or charge the iPhone longer so that music lasts through all the bullshit.

-league has come to conclusion. Team finishes: was out of playoffs by one game on Sunday league. Got second on Tuesday league. Took first on Thursday league. Playing playoffs this week for the team I sub on which will take place this Thursday. (Yeah, I have no clue why I took on a sub position for another team on a night I already play on….but whatever).

-work is OUT OF CONTROL. I’m slammed busy!!! I barely catch break all day long. On the up-side, the days fly by and my week is over quick. Before I know it, I’m back in on a table all weekend long.

-my other job is OUT OF CONTROL too. I am so far behind, I don’t even know where to start on my to-do list is 4 pages long. (That is NOT an exaggeration).

-homemade cooking and food has been fabulous lately :)

So yes – I’ve been busy. Very busy. But each day is a new day, and all I can do is keep truckin’ along.

Let me go back to my pool world real quick….I’ve been privy to a lot going on around me right now. I’ve become more aware of the environments I’m in and who I’m really playing. The biggest thing I’m learning about people is about their attitudes, and how they want to play the game. I find it so different than what I find in myself about game – and I don’t necessarily like it. It annoys me. I want to tell them how ridiculous they sound. How selfish they’re being. How cocky they act. How after so long – the sound like a whining f’n cow (or whatever animal whines for no reason). SHUT THE FUCK UP!

I know that this is nothing new to the pool world. I’m not ignorant to the fact that people are who they are. Hell, I know I too am not the perfect little pool player either or princess etiquette. But lately, dealing more and more with of this all, has really made not want to talk to anyone about pool – at all. Not while we play, not at the bar, not over dinner, not if I run into you on the street, not through email, not ever!

With more major tournaments around the corner, I’ll hopefully find a way to drown out the bullshit and just play. It’s all I really want to do anyway......

......so selfish!

2011-03-24T10:04:00.000-07:00

As I mentioned in previous posts, this past weekend was the largest, most looked forward to, ‘B’ player tournament in town. Players practice all year for this tournament. There are some mad bragging rights that come along with this tournament. Format is 9-ball, limited to 64 players, race to 6, and involves a LOT of $$$.

I spent my entire Friday night there (after working my first full week at my new full time job). There was some great pool and some not so great pool. I love watching how different I see so many people play in tournaments. The player who can kick your ass on a regular basis suddenly freezes. And players you watch fire around a table seem to have a whole new calm dimension to them. A few of my closer friends did really well and moved on to Saturday. I spent another 10 hours there on Saturday (before I ventured off to my own little local Saturday night tournament of course). As the night moved on a long (through modern technology) we find out who else is eliminated and that two of our friends (the closer ones I mentioned) have now made it to Sunday.

It’s getting down to the nitty gritty and the best of the best is slowly weeding out the “not-so-best”!

Well Sunday was going to be an interesting day for me. I had already pre-registered for a local qualifier for a local league here. Winner takes a spot in Singles for Nationals in November. This particular qualifier is cut-off at a certain skill level and I squeeze in at the limit. It was going to be a bit rough as I’m giving up a game to almost every player I play…..considering who I play of course and there are 2 others at my handicap. On top of that, I was dying to get back to the location where the main event was going on.

Well yeah – Sunday was rough. I gave up a game the ENTIRE day! In EVERY match. I took it for what it was worth and focused. I played hard. I took my shots to a new level and it was working. It was probably some of the best pool I had ever played!

Fast forward and I’m in the hot seat. Not only am I in the hot seat, but this 16 player tournament is taking FOREVER!!!!!!!! Mind you, I had been there since 9am (my day really began at 7am – so that I could enjoy a hearty Sunday breakfast with my girl beforehand, because I have an extremely hard time eating anything while I’m in tourney mode). I figured on a good 7 hours for this tournament to be completed – being generous with the handicaps in this particular qualifier and double elimination and two tables. This calculation meant I would be back at the main event in plenty of time for the finals. Think again captain!

One of my super-duper good friends had made it to the final round over there and I was sitting in another bar WAITING to play. All focus had been lost. My phone was blowing up like I was a freakin’ pimp! “Where are you”? “You’re missing all the action”. “Did you know that he made it to the finals”? I was ready to immediately take my hard earned cash and bail. But that little voice inside me said – are f’n crazy…..YOU GOT THIS!

Well I didn’t. That’s rite….all my hard work paid off to a nice 2nd place, a few cold beers, and a bus ride home! A ride which consisted of more texts….”He won”! “How could you miss this”? It went two sets and almost double hill”. “Where are you”?

I (or the beers) debated if this made me selfish. A friend, who not only is an amazing player, but taught me SO much about the game I just lost, had won his biggest title in a long time. And I, mad at myself for missing all the action, was angrier at me for losing my match. For losing my focus. For losing my mind over how I could’ve played so well and been taken so out of my element. Ugh!!!

Live and learn………I and the beers are still debating that one.

Now that I’m all worked up again – I’m ending this post here. There’s dinner to be had and practice to be played. I’m sure I’ll have more to say after this weekend when the big boys come out to show their stuff in the open player tournament.

That is all…….miSsioN fail.

....whirlwind kinda week

2011-03-14T12:36:00.000-07:00

It’s been quite a week…..and I need a break. It started off with a job offer which I couldn’t say no to! For background information, I’ve been freelancing for over a year – and I’m scared to death to go back to a real, full-time job. I like the idea of being my own boss, but the position (and money) was something I really couldn’t turn down. I REALLY contemplated this and call me crazy, but I like the challenge. All this really means is I’ll be working more hours, trying to keep up with our website (and all that goes with it), playing less, sleeping less, and letting the laundry get even more out of control. Well see how long it is before I’m in need of a major vacation.

The past two days was a long weekend of pool. We had our third stop of the tour, handicapped 9-ball over two days (since the location we held it at only has 5 tables). I finally placed in my own tournament – geez! It’s about freakin’ time! (Just for the record, playing – and trying to play well - AND putting up with players when trying to run a tourney is not exactly the easiest to do). I took 5th – 6th so yes, I’m still pissed at myself for losing but I’m okay with where I ended up because I know I played well. I had some great matches and I was happy that my composure stayed intact. It’s something I’ve been trying to work on – not getting upset after missed shots, staying in the zone, not getting excited if I reach the hill first, playing each shot one at a time.

Another thing I’m trying work on is not taking my opponent for granted or think that I’m the underdog when I play someone of a higher skill level. It’s such a mental distraction that it actually affects my game with a dimension I need to eliminate. I’m trying hard to play the table not the player. One day all these things will fall into place…..together.

I also have been watching some great pool streaming from Valley Forge. It always amazes me how effortless the big boys make their matches seem. I wonder sometimes, if their heart is pounding away on the last ball for a match! AND – what I love the most, is that even when they miss the winning ball, even if it’s hanging in the pocket, they NEVER give it away. They will ALWAYS make their opponent shoot. I respect that. In my eyes they’re not saying to their opponent “ you might miss – go ahead and shoot”. They are saying “you’re are one of the best – you won’t miss”. I look at that as RESPECT.

My bf is actually there this year for Rally in the Valley and is getting to watch some of these live - PUNK :) One day I’ll make it there.

First big tourney of the year for our hometown happens next weekend……I can’t wait to sweat some matches. As I mentioned in my last post this is the first of three coming up back to back – so I’ll be posting updates as they come!

.......i'm here, i'm here!

2011-03-04T10:10:00.000-08:00

Yes! SLACKER I am! Don’t hate….. (I actually wonder how many posts this year will start off with me being a slacker).

Life as we know it has taken over as usual, and I can’t seem to catch a break. I’ve been working my ass off on some freelance projects and have been proposed to take a full time position. With a few different companies . Because I kick ass at what I do. ;) Oh – what to do, what to do?!?!?! Let’s just add more things to my plate and see if can still breathe…..yep – that sounds fun!

On the pool front, I really haven’t been playing as much as usual. I will say though, that the times I am playing, I’ve been very happy with my game. It’s not always all there, but in the scheme of things I’ve been playing a hell of a lot better – I’m just hoping it stays that way. Since my last post, our Vegas Billiards Tour had another stop with our largest field yet. It was handicapped 10-Ball and an amazing tournament with some GREAT action. We’re already gearing up for our next stop which happens in next weekend. Updates will follow…..

On top of that, March is filled with some amazing pool here in town. Two of our largest tournaments happen near the end of the month. First being a ‘B’ player tournament, 9-Ball, limited to 64 players which is always a great tournament. I still don’t have the confidence to turn myself in for this one, but every year I watch as some our friends battle it out for the title (bragging rights are pretty big here - lol). Second up will be the ‘A’ player tournament, 9- Ball, limited to 64 players. This tournament has to be my favorite of the year to watch! The big boys (ahem - and girls) in town, and from nearby, plus a few pros come out and it is one of the best weekends in pool here! I’m so excited for both of these.

On top of these two, there will be a women’s tournament (which started last year) and I WILL be competing in that one. Another 9-Ball tourney which is a charity event to benefit a women’s shelter here in town. This one is handicapped, so I feel I have a bit of an edge to compete. (Now, let’s just hope my game keeps up with me until this tourney rolls around).

On the home front, I’ve been cooking up a storm - another favorite of mine, besides just eating :) Just for kicks, here's our famous homemade hamburgers that me and the bf cooked up last week.....

HIS

HERS

And yes - they were delicious!

So all in all, I've been working more and playing less.....but damn it - at least I'm eating well! And to a certain someone, I promise to try to be here more! Yes, just for you ;) It is now my miSsion....

....play the game stupid

2011-02-01T10:46:00.000-08:00

Yes, I'm already slacking here. I have all intentions of being here, and somehow time gets the best of me. Thank you to Mr. kbcnc for putting me in place.

So January has proven to be so-so in everything I said I was going to do. My goal of 7 hours a week of practice hasn't quite made it to the big 7, so I'm keeping that goal front runner. Staying organized and keeping things simple in my life started off great, and slowly starting slipping. This has to change. Keeping my life on track will only make for a better (and happier) me!

In the lovely game of pool, my game is a bit stagnant. I play well on some days and others....you'd think I'd never picked up a cue. It's my favorite friend "inconsistency" that keeps creeping up once in awhile just to remind me that improvement is always up for grabs.

Last weekend we had our first local tour stop for Vegas Billiard Buzz and it was a success! Scotch doubles 8-ball. We had 38 teams all together, so managing 76 players can really take a toll on your game and your mind. (The bloody marys seem to help a bit with that). We handicapped the team limit at 16 which we feel keeps teams somewhat at the same ability seeing as the higher ranked players have to find a bit lower ranked player and the middle ranks can pair up. This was also 8-ball, so yes - it takes a wee bit longer, but we believe gives everyone a chance (instead of your typical 9ball runouts). I guess you'd have to ask the players, but the format seems to work for all.

To be honest I really DON'T care for scotch doubles. I don't like the pressure of letting someone else down. If I F up my game its one thing, I don't wanna F up yours! If I get outta shape in my game, I'll figure out my new plan. Unless we're on the same brain wave lengths.....I don't want you to have to figure out what I need you to do next so I can take the next shot. There are only a few select people in that really know my game and vice versa, and that I would play with at anytime. My partner this weekend was not one of them.

I paired up with a friend of mine who is one of the top in town. His game has improved greatly over the last few months and already being near the top of the spectrum, he's inching closer each week. So I know playing with him I basically have to make a ball and let it roll out. He can take all the harder shots, play the safes, and we'll do fine. WRONG! Even when we got on a few good rolls, he too, would take these immensely ridiculous shots to leave me closer....or better....or straight. Wtf?! Now, I'm not saying I good at his level, but dang it - I know I can still play. And this my friends is why I don't like scotch doubles. I have one of the best players in town, and he feels he needs to do better for me. I'm not one of the better players in town, and I feel I need to do better for him. Ugh, the all around pressure is just too much. (I"ll take another bloody mary now).

Now, I will say our second place team, did not know each other at all. Both showed up without a partner and both just wanted to play. You know why I think they did so well. NO EXPECTATIONS! The were forced to play the game....to play the table. They had no clue how each other played and therefore couldn't do anything crazy. Couldn't try to get better shape, or closer, or take a shot hoping their partner would play the safe. Nope - they played P O O L.

Huh, what a concept!

There is a lady in my ladies division (good player too) who just said this past week "I don't look at my partner, I play the table". I have heard this before, but I really admire this. There are many who say "study your opponent", "get mentally ready", "your opponent is just as scared, nervous, confident, as you are". But you know what, your only real opponent IS the table. You control how you play. You control how your partner plays by the way you play. When you F up....YOU F'd UP! No one else.

“Work out your own salvation. Do not depend on others.” ~ Buddha

define 'reality'.......

2011-01-09T08:32:00.000-08:00

I played in a local 9-ball handicapped tournament this weekend, or rather “I showed up”. I played like complete ass! Maybe it's having taken some time off that has completely got me off rhythm, or maybe it’s the fact that I just was completely un-focused, or maybe it’s the fact that it was Friday night and I had a really bad week and I was more interested in ordering another beer than I was sinking the 9-ball. Whatever was going on with me – I’m chalking it up to NOT being in a mental state of “being at the table”.

Last November my team made it to Nationals for one of the smaller leagues that we play in. Knowing that I really shouldn’t have to play as I’m a lower skill level on the team and the handicap limit for the team total is decently high, I still came full force……just in case. And sure enough, I played. During three of my matches, I played to the effect of – I will win, no exceptions. Not the prettiest pool played, but I played smart, got out and won!

The next day, the first round was make it or break it. If we lost we were out and had no chance at the second chance tourney, if we won we had some money coming back to us. Guess who it came down too, again? (TEAM: Not for nothing, but aren’t you guys supposed to win your matches so that I’m not pressured again? You are the better players you know?!?!) During this match, I felt it……I was in “the zone”. I HAD to win. I could see nothing around me and hear nothing but the balls on other tables being hit around. I played smart. I played safe. I knew every shot. And before I knew it I was down in the match and he was on the hill. Yes – HE was on the hill and I still need 2 more games to even get there. Somehow, some way…..I wasn’t even frustrated. Wasn’t mad, wasn’t sad, wasn’t scared…..I was still there. Still there to kick his ass! And I did :)

Next match – thank you once again to my team for putting me in the situation of HAVING to win. (Gosh you guys are great). As I played this one out, I was once again feeling as if I was just going through the motions and this surreal world was taking over. It gets to double hill and my opponent’s sloppy missed shot leaves me one of the most ridiculous back cuts into a corner pocket that I’ve ever attempted. I take a time-out, confirm I’m about to take the right shot on this and get into position. Oh yeah, by the way, there is the 8-ball left on the table. I’m out if this goes, he’s out if I miss. Ready, aim, perfect execution, my ball drops and the cue ball……slowy…..doesn’t stop…..and rolls back into the side pocket. I lose. I give him f’n ball-in-hand on the 8. WTF?!?!? As my teams is still excited we got some money back and played well all weekend, I pack up my cue, shake my opponents hand and walk out of the tournament room. As I started to see and hear reality again, I feel tears of anger swelling and I swore I’d never play again.

Just as I was beginning to feel (more like KNOW) I had played some of the best pool in my life, it was ripped from me - straight from the heart!

Present day: Knowing that not playing again was really only in my head (though I probably didn’t play for almost a month after that horrid scene), it has finally occurred to me that the metal state of being in that ‘zone’ is something I need to learn to control. How do I get there when I NEED to get there? I’m not talking about focusing to win on league nights or every time I get on the table to play. I’m talking about when I’m playing and I WANT to ultimately kick your ass!

Hhhmmm, miSsioN underway!

guess who's back.....

2011-01-05T18:13:00.000-08:00

Back again!!! So it’s been almost a year since I’ve been here….I know, I know, I’m a slacker. But 2010 brought some ‘interesting’ challenges into my life and things got in the way. One of my resolutions for this year, are to write more so here I am. The 5^th of January and my first attempt at being better at my blog.

I made a mental note a few months back and realized that writing really was a great release for me. Not only so I can vent, bitch, and complain about my game (oh and life in general), but I also could re-read and reflect on points in what was happening with my game and life. Hopefully I’ll keep this resolution and not bore the hell outta my virtual friends out there. Just let me know when I do ;)

Another goal for this year: PRACTICE! My game is improving in small bits and pieces but I want more! Selfish sounding? I don’t care. Only I can improve and destroy my game – so bring it on! I’ve decided to start small and shoot (no pun intended) for 7 hours of practice a week. That’s an hour a day if you break it down, but since I can’t always get to practice on some days but can play for 3 on another, it’s just going to be 7 hours total in a week.

I won’t bother with going into all the other little goals I have for 2011, like painting more, exercising more, blah, blah, blah – but I will tell you my number 1 goal is to get my life organized. Like really organized. Like being better with my finances, keeping an organized schedule, making ME time, and maybe even keeping the house a little cleaner (the later being not so important). I find that sometimes I do SO much for others , that my own life falls to the way-side and it starts to spiral out of control. And then I feel like I’m playing catch up……forever. NOT GOING TO HAPPEN ANYMORE! I’m hoping this will make for a better Me. A happier, less-stressed, free soul, not broke, Me!

So cheers to a new year! Leagues all start back up this week, my website tour stops are beginning this month, and weekly tournaments are back after the holidays. So let the games begin. I wish you all a happy, healthy, safe, ass-kicking, great food eating year! miSsoN begin……..

moving right along..........

2010-02-05T15:02:00.000-08:00

It never seems to amaze me that time goes by so quickly when you don't stop to smell the roses. How we are already into February is beyond me........but so is life!

Recap: The "mini" tour we began last week was a HUGE success. We nearly doubled our expected show of faces and players and the day turned into a 12 hour event. WOW! We had huge support from our friends and can't wait to do the next one. Thank you to all! Now on the pool playing side of it for me - I sucked @$$. This event was scotch-doubles and my partner and I hardly saw the table. I guess not seeing the table as much is an ok result in losing, but what is NOT okay is the fact the I was not taking the best shots possible. I was making them, but the cue ball positions were horrid. I must refocus on strategy and defense as well as my offense. Otherwise I'm in for a LONG season of pool.

A few days later - on my league night with 9' tables, it really hit me that my game is off. I'm still loving the big tables, but hot dang I got smoked. S M O K E D!!!!!!! I feel like I've taken a step backwards with my game. I'm back to a mind set that if I'm down in my match, then I immediately go into "make every ball" mode. No thought process, no defense, no chalk. Just shoot. UGH.....this is NOT a good thing. I was discussing this process with my other half who "politely" told me he had been noticing this with me for awhile. What?!?! Awhile?!?!? WTF?! And you couldn't have said anything sooner. Geeze!!!!!! Now in his defense I have asked to be left alone for awhile. I want no comments, no help, no discussions on my games.....nada! So to be fair - he was just following the rules ;)

Well this has got me in a funk. I absolutely still DO NOT want advice, help, discussions from anyone other than those who I've already let in a bit and have coached me. Which means yes you - drunk guy in the bar who has been playing for shots all night. You - opponent on the team I'm playing against who jumps up at every possibility to give timeouts to his team yet can't win his own game. Yes - you stranger who wonders in and randomly starts spittin' out how you'd take on anyone in here for money. (In fact you can leave and never come back). All of you can "politely" leave me the F alone! Thanks! For all of you that have helped in one way or another.... I'll be back for some slaps up side the head when I F up!!!

my friend's bf proposed to me..........

Hahaha! Not really! He proposed that we play BCA scotch doubles together at Nationals. Hhhmm, while I'm thrilled that he thought of me, little ole me, to play with him - I'm just not that sure. For one, I really don't care for scotch doubles. I don't like the pressure of letting others down.....letting myself down is hard enough. Two, I've never competed in BCA Nationals. Other nationals - yes. But this one always conflicts with something else going on in my life that makes me miss it. (Yes - I do have a life outside of pool, as hard as that is to believe and believe me it is definitely not as important as pool, but it does pay the bills.) I'm still debating and I need to hurry up and make up my mind. If I say yes......I'm running out of time to get some serious practice in.

back to work.......

2010-01-29T15:00:00.000-08:00

A new year, new league sessions, and a bright future.......2010 better not suck! ;)

Actually, so far so good. Leagues have been in session about 4 weeks now. I'm happy to be back to the normal routine of pool. The holidays always seem to get in the way of my playing time. LOL, but I suppose it's okay. I wholeheartedly decided that I did not want to burn myself out this session and was only going to be playing one night a week. WAS should've been your key to the fact that I couldn't keep that resolution. Resolutions are for the weak anyway right?! I'm up to 2 nights and 1 day of league play. I will say that the great thing is that all 3 days are different leagues. This is really opening my eyes to all the different caliber of play out there, what people really know about pool and how much they don't! It's been interesting so far...........

One of these 3 leagues is completely new to me. New in the fact of handicaps, scoring, and level of players. Oh, and it's on 9 foots. I'm in heaven. I completely dislike the way the scoring goes, but am absolutely in love with playing on the big tables again. **Flashback - when I first began playing pool - for real, for real, pool - it was an in-house league on 9' s. I had no clue back then what the game was really all about, so I had no opinion on the tables, the game, anything** Back to present........... ah, 9's - it really is the best. I now know why I get so frustrated with bar box tables and how I'm completely re-learning the way I shoot. It's like learning the game all over almost. And I'm back to being EXCITED to play every week. Also, because of this new excitement, I actually look forward to playing on the bar box nights, just to see how I handle the adjustments in play. Hopefully this all keeps up and I'm not bitching mid season ;)

This weekend is going to be the first of many long ones. I've gone in with someone to begin a mini tournament session here in town. It will go all year , with about 9 stops. Earn points and play for big $$ in the finals. A "mini-tour" if you will............... Registration is nearly full, so we're excited. Hopefully this all goes well! How I keep taking more and more on in my world is beyond me.....its a wonder my laundry is never done!

Anyways.......here's to a new year - full of laughs, love, pool, and good food! I'll be back with updates on how this miSsoN is playing out!

another year gone......

2009-12-31T10:24:00.000-08:00

WOW! Talk about MIA...... I apologize for my absence - it's been a whirlwind end of year. A crap load of personal issues, drama, and emotions. And a few highs to keep me in check and remind me I'm still human and life is just an adventure......we choose the next ride!

Let's see - where to begin........I'll try to recap as short and as sweet as I can.

November
November had it is ups and downs. My new business venture, the website, (along side my real job) completely took over my world. Busier than I could've ever imagined, but I loved every moment of it. My business partner and I made more connections than we really knew what to do with but we established ourselves and now business is booming!

A small break for Thanksgiving had my bf and I out of town to visit his family. A wonderful weekend of food, family, and fun. The drive home - no so! Our truck broke down, we spent two extra days there, ended up having to fly home and I was just trying not to breakdown. I have no clue on when and how I'll be able to come up with the money to fix it and how we're gonna get around..........UGH!!! AND I was dying to play some pool. (Yes - our truck is still there)

December
Work is crazy, outta control, busy!!! I'm an event planner by day and January is slammed, so that means TONS of pre-event work in December. This is the part of my job I can't stand. In my personal life my best friend's father passed and it was an emotional week of memories! (RIP R.B. - I love you!) Holiday parties, pool league end of sessions, work, practice........I'm not sure how much sleep I actually got in the first three weeks of December, but I do know that I was beat. Dead beat tired! I was so emotionally drained about so many personal issues that I didn't actually think about Christmas until I had looked at a calendar on the 18th and realized it was a week away! During that week, a family member ended up in the hospital. UGH, this wasn't turning out to be a very merry christmas. By the 24th (yes - christmas eve) I realized I HAD to get myself together. Positive thoughts and life ONE DAY AT A TIME!

Christmas day was spent with family and my bf. A nice day - mellow and calm.....and I vowed to not let all the bad in my life haunt me. Early the next day, my bf was off to visit his sister and I have now been alone for almost a week. And as much as I've missed him - this has been a week of solitude that I needed. For the most part, I've slept. Really slept. I think that I've been in bed more in 5 days than I have all month. Literally.

AND, I'm back on point with pool ;) All of the above has left my game in some much desperate need of some TLC. My game had completely gone down the drain and I'm just now getting back to where I know I should be. And it feels good. REALLY good.

Present
Last night a friend convinced my to go play with her in weekly tournament here in town. I had been in the house too long she said (I actually was enjoying my quiet time thank you very much). But I tagged along since I really did want to hit some balls. This was what I call a "Big Boy" Tournament - like a tournament with REALLY good players. Handicapped 9-Ball, 9' tables, and handicaps ranging from 3-10. Like I said earlier "big boys" - so most of these players fell on the 7-10 side of the handicapped range.

Um, I'm not sure if the hiatus of not playing on a regular basis was the trick or what - but I played. WELL. On 9foots. I never play 9foots. I came back to win a game after being down 0-8 and he was on the hill. No winnings, but did make it to one outta the money. I played well. And was STOKED.

So after this shitty ending to a crazy year.......Cheers to a NEW one. I'm vowing to take life ONE DAY AT A TIME. To practice hard and improve my game. To stay healthy, spend quality time with the people in my life who matter, and enjoy the ride.

Enjoy the new year......I'm oN a miSsion to do just that.

so the story goes.....

2009-10-28T16:18:00.000-07:00

This past Sunday, a league here in town held an "open" 8ball tournament which held 3 different handicapped brackets. "Open" meant that even if you didn't play in that particular league, you could pay the same entry and play in one of the brackets so long you had an updated score or handicapped sheet to say where you ranked. Since this tournament brought out a lot of different skilled players who had to merge in to the particular "league rules" and handicaps, races were shortened. Overall it made for a nice day of Sunday of pool.

My bracket was one of the smaller filled ones, which I didn't mind so much. I didn't play as well as I know I could have (or maybe my game is less than what I think it is). Here's the quick run down, I have a race to 2:

match 1
I won 2-0

match 2
I won 2-0

match 3
I came across someone who I had seen play before.....a new player in the league but he's a good shot. I missed an easy safe and gave up my first game of the day. (0-1) So now he's on the hill. UGH! He gets a good break, and drops two balls. As he's bearing down to win....I'm thinking I'm going to the one-loss side. I got a lucky break when he rattled a ball in the side. With only two clear shots for position I end up playing safe to leave him bad instead of going for it. And it worked. I got ball in hand and ran the table. Hill - hill and I take it.
2-1

match 4
I take game one. In a really bad second rack I get up to shoot after he misses and realize I'm lined up for a 2 ball and the 8. As I walk to the table, I notice the score sheet says I have to to go to 3 games, my opponent to 2. Um, I'm sorry?!?!?! WHAT???? So I ask before I shoot and sure as hell, this guy is one skill lower. The race is 3-2. I'm gonna have to play another rack. I'm not sure if I let this get to me or if I just played really poor. I let him get this game and I'm pissed. Score is 2-1 and hill-hill. I decide to not let it bother me. I play fierce and capitalized on each mistake he made. I think this frustrated him because he started missing - bad. Really bad. I'not sure if he was nervous or what, but his game changed, not for the better.
I won 3-1

Now, I still haven't looked at the board all day, but I'm figuring I've gotten pretty far. As they announce the next match for my bracket, I hear them call my last opponent to play for 2nd and 3rd....and I know I've made it to the hot seat!!!

match 5
In true double elimination, my opponent must beat me twice....race to 2 each match. He breaks and begins to run out the table. Hhhhmmmm - not fun. As I watch him shoot, I get the impression he's not "focused to win", but has the attitude of "Oh, I got this"........... He's shooting quickly, not paying attention to the layout of the table, and pretty much firing away. With two balls left and the 8, he calls a kick shot to move the 14 ball 3 rails. Wow! Okay! Now I'm not your smartest player, or the most talented, but this ball does NOT go. Maybe he knows something I don't.....but with all my balls near the 14 I can't imagine what he's gonna do. He fires away - It doesn't go.

I immediately look at all of my balls. No real good shot, I've got most of them up near the top rail, so I take the open shot and play safe. He has to kick and misses. I play safe. H goes for a cut and misses. I play safe. He's no longer firing away (what a concept!). Through out all this I slowly clear my balls since I've gotten them in front of pockets with all my safes. I have the 1 and 8 left. I have a pretty steep cut down the rail and the 8 is hanging. I f'n hang the one. HANG the one!!!!!!!!! I could've sneezed and it would've fell. UGH. He wins 1-0

He breaks and scratches. I continue my play, in not such a slow play, but focused, concentrated, and smart. As a group of his friends near the table to watch, he gets into conversation. Annoyed at the laughing hyenas, I stay focused. I'm down to 2 balls and the 8 and say SAFE, this gets his attention and he realizes if he doesn't make his next ball, I'm out. He cannot play safe and he stares at me. Hmph!. I end up winning and we're 1-1.

I'm on the hill...he needs this to stay in. I break, two balls fall, and I begin to layout my path. He has now moved away from his friends, and is watching closely. We go back and forth and he's on the 8. He has to cut and misses. I have two balls near the top rail, one I can cut, but one on the rail. I'm gonna have to slow roll the hell outta the cue ball because I can't hold it at that angle. He smirks, mumbles to his friends, and my horn come out. It's ON!!!!! I execute perfectly and I'm out! 2-1 and a few dollars richer!!! ;)

miSsoN complete!

Just for laughs.........3 days later.........

My bf had league so I tag along. We're get there a little early so we're practicing on our own tables. The other team starts to trickle in. I start to over here two guys talking:

Guy A: "How was that tournament?"

Guy B: "Oh, good! I took 2nd. I should've had the last one too, but some chick beat me. She got so lucky. I played so good and she was just firing away make balls fall. I felt bad for her, she really didn't know what she was doing so I'm okay that I let her win"

LMFAO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! ARE YOU KIDDING ME??????????????????????????????

I seriously wanted to laugh out loud.....but didn't. I did however have a HUGE smile on my face. Just as he was about to break, he looked over at my table. I smiled bigger than I think I ever have. He looked at me with such a blank stare, you would've thought he'd seen a ghost.

Guy A: "What's up man? Break already"

Guy B: "That's her. And, uh, she plays a good game........mumble, studder, muble......

Not only did I have no clue who my bf's team played that night, I was more than happy I came. Overhearing that, was probably sweeter than my victory as I got to sit quiet, smile, and know that I KICKED HIS ASS!!!!

slow and steady

2009-10-22T10:30:00.000-07:00

Well it's been a few interesting weeks of HORRIBLE pool play and a shit load of hours to try and correct it all. I'm FINALLY back to playing well (well, decent at least) and it feels good.

Over the course of all this bad play, I knew what I was doing wrong (for the most part). And the more I tried to correct it all, the worse it got. The question became: Why was I doing it? I would get down, see the shot, line up correctly, and change at the last minute. The bf and I had endless arguments about what I was doing, why and how. I could've ripped his head off on many occasions, but I really don't have time for jail right now.

I already have a hell of a time listening to unwanted advice. There are times (most all the time actually) I really just want to hit balls, be left alone, and talk to no one! Please just let me be!!! I mean can't we just play and you not criticize my every shot. I'll figure it out - and when I can't, I'll ask. And I know he really is just trying to help.....i just don't need to be talked to like I'm 5 and don't understand you. Thanks for your understanding!!!

I took a little time off....a little. But those days really did make a difference. Last Sunday, the bf and I went to practice (which we do often on Sundays, because we can play our little hearts out with no interruptions). I finally felt like I was back to my old ways. Hitting what I knew, practicing what I didn't, making good shot selection, and getting out of not so great table layouts. I 100% think, that because I was getting good outs, I felt confident in my play again and automatically didn't think of all the negative thoughts I was having. I didn't once focus on the "what if's' and 'maybe's" and just PLAYED. It was a good feeling again. And now he was the quiet frustrated one, as I silently kicked his ass ;)

moving on...

I got a new tip put on last night!!! I play so much that my tip actually gets down to about the width of a dime sometimes before I actually decide to fork out the effort to change it. I know it sounds crazy, but I do think half the time I don't even realize it and have become so used to it that even shaping it some changes my game. Crazy - i know!

Anyhow, I put a LePro on for the first time. When I first started playing (really playing) I had Triangles. It's all I knew and I could've cared less and not known the difference if it was anything else. Then of course, the more I learned about pool - and all the equipment to go with - I was told to find what works for me. Liking the medium-hard tip I was used to, my last change was to a hard. (Water Buffalo, I believe). Just to see if I liked something new........... For the first two or threes weeks I wasn't comfortable. It was like hitting rocks across a parking with a bat. Then with slight adjustments, I got used to it and was fine. I decided to change again, to maybe just see what else was out there - and the fact I was playing so bad (event though I got back on track) I was looking for anything to fix my game - and that didn't help my mental decision. So I went LePro on ya! Now I've heard there isn't anything different between this tip than a Triangle, the LePro could actually be worse. One person told me it's the worst out there. But I've heard good things as well and so we shall see. I mean seriously it's just a tip and can always be replaced. Are there any suggestions for any other good tips for your average, run-of-the-mill, player???

yes - i'm still around......

2009-10-08T08:37:00.000-07:00

I know, I know....it's been over a month since I've touched this blog - but hey, I've been busy okay?!?!

It has been a crazy few weeks in my world. CRAZY! But I'm still here - hangin' on by a thread. As work and life keep moving along, my pool world has been.......eh - okay. I seem to be kind of just trucking along. Playing when I have to, practicing when I can....it's all just been so-so. THIS HAS TO CHANGE.

I got asked to play in a three-man tournament. Handicap 9-Ball. Two out of three matches wins. I'm honored that these two individuals would consider me to play, they both are slightly above my level. Needless to say, I have to get some serious practice in. The tournament is 1 month away. Lately, when I do jump on a table for practice, I find myself hitting solid shots too softly, and light shots with way too much stroke. I know I'm doing this and as I try to compensate for it, I'm over or under hitting on the wrong stroke. I've also been finding myself getting some decent runs.....and then I'm on the last ball. I STARE at this ball FOREVER. Even when its dead in the whole. I have no clue why, but I have this fear lately of "what if it doesn't go? What if I over do this or that? Why I'm scared?" A hundred and sixty-nine things start running through my head and I can't control it. And if it's league night, I then have a whole team staring at me saying "What are you doing?" Its all really frustrating. Really, really, frustrating. So I definitely need to figure out what in the hell is going on with that.

On a lighter, happy, much less depressing, whoa is me note - I'm taking on a new task with a good friend of mine. We've decided to start a website for our local players. We cover our local tournaments, have a calendar that you can view weekly tournaments around town and upcoming larger events, photos, stories, feature local players, some miscellaneous all around pool news, and more. You can also sign up for a weekly e-newsletter to get your "quick" news which is sent out every Thursday. It's been a LOT of work. But as both of our passions are pool, it has all been worth it. We've got great support from friends and players around town. We want to promote and support this game we love so much.

If you get the time, check it out vegasbilliardsbuzz.com

back to work

2009-09-09T10:09:00.000-07:00

Leagues are back in session - which means lots more table time, no quiet nights at home, and the laundry piles grow in to mounds I have to hurdle like I'm in the x-games! And of course, all the drama is back in action too. (For once, I'd like to go to league night and NOT hear someone bitching about something - just once).

On my 9ball night I had lost my match. I was running down to the 7, 8, or 9 - missing - and giving my opponent ball in hands for the run out. It was ugly. I attempt to blame this on this night being my first night back to league and really not having practiced as much as I would've liked. But I can't, I just played horrible. We ended up short a player and in this particular league you can play "team survival". The opposing team can choose anyone on our team to play the last match. Guess who lost and guess who they choose? Ugh..............

I'm up against a player who is two skill levels higher than I. Its a race to your handicap so I'm getting some weight. I shot well. He missed a few good shots and let me get to the table a few more times than I should've. Redemption at its finest. I won - with style too! ;) So thank you, opposing team. Thank you for letting me redeem myself and complete my mission of kicking your ass. I appreciate it.

new adventures......

A friend of mine and I had some business to attend to so we decided to meet at a local bar where she would be playing in a new tournament in town. 9ball, handicapped, race to 4 on the winners, 3 on the losers, alternate break, rack your own, 3-foul in effect. During our meeting she had convinced me to play. I was extremely against it. The players in this, men and women, are all big boy ballers who can play. I was going to get some mad weight. I finally decided, I can play and get some experience against these guys, play my heart out and see what happens. Just please don't laugh at me! And please pool gods, just don't let me get stomped all over.

Weight is a magical thing (when it pertains to pool of course). My first opponent is one of the top players in town. Of course I would be matched with him. He being the rock star he is - I was getting the call 7,8. Nice. He of course played well, but the alternate break was giving me some chances. He also missed - at the wrong times. Before I knew it I was up 3-0. WTF?!?! He scratched giving me ball in hand on the 8 and I win. 3-1.

It was all down hill from there. My next two game were a mess. I played two girls, whom I know from around town. Both extremely good players, but I knew they were both beatable. And I gave up. I missed my first shot in my first match and I automatically felt myself giving up and saying "I can't do this". I have no clue what my problem was, but I missed the same shot all 3 times to give my opponents ball in hands to combo the 9. I REALLY need to work on that shot. Or f*n realize that that shot didn't work the first time, so maybe take it another way. Perception off or error on shot - it doesn't matter. Don't take it again. But I did. And my little mission through this tournament was over.

The issue now........I WANT to play again in it. There something about losing that has me wanting to play again. I'm not sure if it's because I think I can beat the people I lost to. If I know deep down I can play better than that. If I desperately want to be as good as the players in there. I WANT IT!!!!

So when do you live, learn, and let go? And when do you say F that s#*& - I can do better?

drum roll please!

2009-08-31T15:31:00.000-07:00

And the winner is.....

YOURS TRULY! ;)

My first win in a semi-large, local, singles event!!! Ha - the sound of me winning first place, still makes me giggle. But before we get to that......

It's been a random week of pool. League session got done a little over 2 weeks ago and it was nice at first to have a break. No commitment - play at our own free will. No pressure - just good old ball bangin' and practice. But by the beginning of last week, I knew we were all bored. Almost all of us who play together, though we're friends even outside of league, we're at the bar playing. Every night. League is starting again this week and I'm actually a little excited to get back to it. I'm also going to be doubling up - two different leagues. On the same night. Crazy. I know. I am happy on the league I play on for this particular night. A friend of ours got screwed over and left high and dry......so he asked me if I'd play with them. Different league, one I've played before and it would mean I'd get the chance to qualify for larger national events. I told him, my skill level was moving up some so I didn't think I'd quite be the "lower level" player he needed and I wouldn't be able to make it to all nights seeing as I'm committed to keeping my spot on my other team. He was completely fine with all of it. Decisions - decisions.

I said yes. What the hell....what do I have to lose?

Speaking of large National events.....APA has come and gone yet again! Another year of team events, chaotic masses of people, and some organized sense of an unorganized mini tournament room and people watching GALORE!!!! Lots of galore! If you have never been to APA Nationals - IN AUGUST (the April one really doesn't compare), please be ready to see some of the most unimaginable people in your life. It really might be worth the cost of travel just to trip out on people!

Due to something called work and a "real" job (whatever) I wasn't able to play in many mini's this year. I haven't played APA in a session or so, but I knew I was still eligible to play. We had friends in the team events, both 8 and 9 ball and lots of friends playing minis. (One of the great things about living in Sin City, is that it is a pool mecca and we get all sorts of great events here). I took a half day on Thursday and Friday last week to just hang out down there. Thursday was partly because a friend of mine and I wanted to buy into a Ladies only, Scotch Doubles event on Friday. And we did. I wondered around aimlessly for a bit, watching some friends play. Mini's are always full if you don't get there in time to sign up so I took my chance in a hope for someone selling their spot. I got lucky.

9-ball and most all my opponents had to spot me some balls. (hey, I'm still learning).

I lost :( All mini's are single elimination. So no matter how well you might be playing....one, two, a few mistakes can cost you the match before you blink your eyes! Oh well - only 358 days until APA is back!

My friend and I also were out in our Ladies event. We actually got our money back so I guess 5th outta 32 teams isn't so bad, especially for our first time ever playing together, but we really thought we could take that one! Hmph!

SUNDAY POOL

Aaaaahhh! There is something about playing pool on Sundays that makes me happy. I'm not sure if its the relaxing feeling I get on Sundays no matter what I'm doing, the slight hangover from playing in our weekly little bar tournament every Saturday night, the smell of the 6 cups of coffee I'll enjoy until noon, or the thought of brunch - filled with tons of yummy good food, bloody marys and champagne.

Well on this particular Sunday, the bf and I had an end of session league party to attend to. You claim your trophies and monies (should you have placed) and then there's an all day tournament to play in. Quick tournament, 8 ball race to 2 - double elimination. (3 if you're a rockstar and tap out on the handicap list). A not bad entry fee of $10 which includes your green fees and $100 added to each bracket. They divide the brackets up by handicaps and the bf is skilled higher than I so I know we won't meet up. I'm oN a miSsioN.....

match 1

I'm called to play - one of my friends. I mean everyone in the pool world (especially league) is friends. SHE PLAYS ON MY TEAM. TWO of my teams!!!!!

Well that got things off to not so great start. We've had to play each other before and I guess that's what happens when you're the same skill level. We just hate it. Of course I want this win - but I really would love to see her advance as well.

I won 2-0.

match 2

I'm surprised to see my opponent at the table. She's a good shot, but I had just watched her previous match and the guy she'd played should have beat her hands down! WOW - she's on today apparently.

She breaks, nothing falls. I make a couple good shots but am having a hard time controlling the cue ball. I miss an easy cut to get on the eight and she finishes up. 0-1

She breaks the next rack and had nicely left all solids in position. I'm gonna have to play some good safes. I run a few and then get locked. I go for the safe and it rolls out too far. UGH! During my time at the table she's talking to a friend how she's happy she' up one. She lost her previous match with only a few balls to spare. hhhhhmmmmm...................WHAT?!?!!? She's looking at the lay of the table, getting ready to shoot and I say

I'm sorry - did you say you lost that last match?

Yes. I'm in the loser's bracket already.

Then I believe we shouldn't be playing.....I won my first match.

She stares blankly at me with piercing eyes.

Would you mind if I ran up to the desk and check the bracket with the tournament director?

Go ahead.

Sure enough - they had mixed up winner/loser from my first match and I'm playing the wrong person. My opponent eventually comes up and agrees to replay the match with the correct person. She made the comment that she was ahead a game, and I truly felt bad knowing that she was on a mission to win that next game, so I guess I lucked out.

match 2 - again.

My new opponent had also won - against the wrong person - so he was a bit irritated to replay the correct match, but agreed. I play him in league and know he's a decent shot. He's also tall as hell so leaving him a long shot reach safe, doesn't really count cause he can reach! (I wish I was a lil bit talla, I wish I was a balla)

The first game is ugly. I make one on the break but then get hooked. I kicked and missed. He is running out, but I stay focused and see he's going to hook himself. He ends up scratching and I run out. YAY me! 1-0

Next rack We both play well and run down to our last few balls. He misses a straight shot and I have two balls left and the eight. I slowly find the pattern I like, get on the eight and miss! WTF?!?! Its a slight cut into the top corner. Yes - I'm shooting from the bottom rail, but this is makeable. I choked. Because I missed it left him a bit long and he misses to. Again - I have a slight cut on the eight to the other top corner, but the cue ball is closer. I fricken choke AGAIN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

He ends up running out and we're both on the hill. (Geeze, these little races to 2 are killin' me)! 1-1

With all the focus I have (because now, I'm hungry) , I stay in this game. This last game draws some spectators. Some of whom want to chat. I'M PLAYING A MATCH HERE.....CAN'T YOU SEE?!?! If I haven't mentioned this before or even if I have - let me explain: When I'm playing a match, I'd really rather not speak. TO ANYONE! Please, just let me be. I can see when I miss and do not want you to tell me what I did wrong. I know when I make a good shot or get good position, I do not want you to re-confirm that. If you'd like to speak to me, please wait until I'm done playing and please let it be about what's for lunch or if I'd like a beer......do not bring up my game. THANK YOU!

I win. 2-1

match 3

As I'm walking to my table for my match I over hear my opponent tell her friends that she hasn't lost a match all day. Hhhmmm. She is one of the better players at my level, but I know I can take her. Let's see if I can stop that winning streak. ;)

Holy safety games!!! I have never played as many safes as I did in this match. Screw the first two games. They were okay. We're tied 1-1

I break, nothing. She starts to run out. She misses a bank shot and now has two balls left. I begin to run as well. I miss a long shot and the ball slides close to the eight. As much as I hated that miss, it probably saved my game. She can make the other two, but cannot get position on that eight anymore. So she takes the first ball and but calls defensive down. So look at the lay of the table. Safe. She has to kick or jump. She opts to jump. She touches it but misses. I know that I can make at least one of my balls but there is no good position for anything else, or to break apart my ball and the eight for me to keep running. And I'm NOT breaking that eight out for her. Safe. She's irritated, but jumps again. Misses entirely. I have ball in hand, but again cannot get good shape. Safe.

This chess match goes on for about 8 innings. I know she's pissed, but I don't care. I will not give into my impatience nor my usual "make every ball" attitude. In the midst of all this the eight has moved to a corner pocket. It's pretty much hanging on for dear life. She touches her ball, misses the shot and I'm left with a long shot on the only ball I can really see. Safe. This safe leaves the cue ball on the rail near the side pocket with one of my balls between her and the eight. I was really trying to leave the cue tied up with mine, not so great safe. Damn. She'll jump and win. She only has to touch that eight and it's falling. She goes for a kick!!!

WHAT?!?! No way....after all that jumping you're going to kick a ball in when there's not angle to come off a rail?!?!?!?! You only have to touch that eight. It's falling no matter how you hit it. My safe left you a touch shot. Nope - she kicked. And that cue ball fell right in after that eight! :)

2-1

So 3 1/2 matches later, I'm in the hot seat and proud of how I played today. My last opponent....another friend. She played a little off her game, but it ended up a decent match. I pulled a run out on the last game to win! The pool gods have definitely let some light shine on me today.

Gaining this win has boosted my confidence some. I realize now, that I CAN do this. I CAN win. No help, all on own! And it's a great feeling. ;)

Oh and on a side note - as I was caught up in my own world of wonder......my bf ended up winning his bracket too. We we're both overly stoked, celebrated at our home bar and thought to ourselves "what a great day"!!!

back to reality....

2009-08-24T13:17:00.000-07:00

A week away can do wonders for your soul.....

It's been a week since I've returned from my 5 day mini vaca. With pool a close second...there is nothing nicer than quality time with family, good friends, and good food. My family lives nowhere near me, so with reason to party - we made the most of 5 days and rocked it. I got to my brothers one day earlier, so for a little sibling catch up time - we hit the bars and completely lost our minds. (It's funny when you can look at your little brother, have a drink with him, and actually have adult conversations - well until you've had that last shot...or the next one)! On my mission to stay away from pool while on vaca, I was there all of 1 1/2hours and pick up a cue. UGH. Yes - I'm addicted! We were at a place with nice 9 foot tables. I haven't played one on in a long time so I knew I would be a bit off (not to mention I was already 2 beers and 2 patron shots deep). Surprisingly I didn't do so bad. Was it because I was enjoying myself and surroundings? Not taking the game so seriously for the first time in awhile? It felt good to run a good rack - 9 foot style!

With a vow to not play while there.....I did pretty good after that first night. There's a corner bar about 20 yards from my brother's front door (uh - on the corner?!?!) with two bar boxes at .50 cents a piece. Sweet! But I decided against it. Quality time with the family right?!?!

I lasted until my very last night. I actually hadn't thought about playing during the days so much as I did about shots. During quiet moments - I did a good amount of analyzing shots in my head from recent league nights and weekly tournaments. I made mental notes and thought about what I really needed to work on. And then couldn't take it. My last night there, I said goodnight to my family as they headed back out of town and marched down to the bar with my brother and his girl. Couldn't resist and picked up a cue. AAAAHHHHH!!!!! The clouds parted and a light shined down ;)

I played decent. Didn't try to focus too much and just ran a few racks. Played a few games with innocent by-standers, won, and won again. It felt good to play people I didn't know and play well. No one behind me second guessing my shot selections and not asking why I did or didn't do something. Maybe I should play out of town more often.

back to reality....

I had missed my own bar while gone. The tables, the stench, the drunks. There's something about playing in my own environment that is somewhat comforting. Second night back and HAD to hit a few balls. 5 hours, 3 beers, 2 blue chalked hands later - it was good to be on home tables.

Yesterday was a first real practice day again with the bf. I was playing okay. Won some, lost some, but felt like I had really slowed down some. My ball speed and stroke seemed to be working together for the first time in a long time and I liked that. I 'm wondering if my small break from the game brought back a little bit of the focus that I had let slip. Maybe I need to take a little mini break a little more often. I'll see how playing goes the rest of this week and then make that decision.

Does determination, focus, and clarity return when you've freed your mind? We are the only ones who can control our minds....in turn our bodies.....in turn our souls.

are f'n kidding me?

2009-08-12T13:39:00.001-07:00

I haven't been blogging as much as I'd like lately. My world seems to have become a cluster f* of a variety of things, none of which allow for good pool time. I've needed a break anyway from pool - so it's probably good. And when I say break...I mean from playing. I've still been around it all the way. League nights, tournaments, practice.......

My bf played in a team national qualifier this past weekend. Interesting. I didn't pick up my cue once to hit a ball. I watched and observed and made a few new assumptions on why a person plays this game. I saw VERY good players in our town miss, scratch, lose. I also saw some beginners do extremely well and make good shot decisions. What I've boiled this all down too (in my mind that analyzes too much) is that your environment has A LOT to do with how well you play. My last post talked about how much is too much to be playing with someone or a team and this weekend confirmed thoughts about that. If you're playing a team event and your team could care less if the team wins or loses......you are playing with the wrong group. Especially if you have the heart, believe, and want to play this game getting better each time you shoot, and win. The desire to win is sometimes enough to put your body through the motions to actually win. The negative thoughts about losing are things that should never enter your mind. Unless you don't care of course!

a new mission presents itself

I play on a few nights a week. One of my teams has been together a little over 3 years now. We're not only a team, but friends. Friends that hang out outside of pool. Until last night. We changed leagues at the beginning of this session for a bunch of reasons that I really don't feel like explaining right now. We all were in agreement. A few weeks ago, our captain mentions he's going back to the original league. "oh that's good" , I say...."I've been thinking about it too. There are more options for different national events, I kinda miss being able to qualify for those. But, I would never abandon this team, I might look for some new people to play with."

Last night - we find out that he's abandoning us. And not only is he going back to the other league on the night we play on, but he's asked 3 others from our team to go with him. Now, they all said yes, thinking our whole team was moving back. Uuuhhhhh, NO! He didn't even ask some of us let alone just let us know. Dirty! The rest of us have decided to keep our team on this same night in this same league we're in now and gain a few new friends. I'm happy with that.

I told my bf that I have no problem whatsoever that they all want to go back. My problem is - that as a CAPTAIN of a team, more so a FRIEND, you would think he'd have the balls to just mention it to us. Not go behind our backs and straight leave.......with half the team. This will not end our friendship in any means, but have some f'n respect for your "friends". On a positive note, I'm good. If this is how you really want to be, then take your happy ass and all this sneaky, bullshit, high school school drama with you. I have no room to waste my energy on drama......I have more important things to focus on. Like my pool game ;)

This is our last week of the session (we're in 1st place too mind you) and then we'll be off to begin our new mission with a fresh start!

ME time.....

I'm leaving tonight for a mini vaca. I'm hoping to really get some good time AWAY from pool. I highly doubt that I won't pick up a cue should I happen to stumble into an establishment that has a table and some crappy bar cues....but I am going to try. I need a good refresher and hopefully when I get back I'll be focused again! I REALLY need this! ;)

no motivation

2009-07-22T15:38:00.000-07:00

I haven't been motivated to play lately and I don't know why. I seem to be slipping away from the "want" - to really play. Funny thing is I've been playing some the best pool I've played in awhile (except for last night - which is a whole other story). I'm contemplating the pondering thoughts of why I've had no drive lately and can't seem to stick to one answer.....hhhmmmm

I sometimes have to look at myself, my surroundings and wonder if I'm not just a little bit bored. I play on two teams - each which consist of mostly the same people. I also tag along to another two nights of play on which my bf plays. Then there is our weekly tournament which holds about 90% of regulars. I think I need a new set of faces to play with.

Last night I played extremely bad. Missed straight shots, played safes that didn't stay safe, and I let a player pretty much take advantage of every missed shot that I took. (I know that's the point of this game, but it sucked....BAD)! The more I think of reasons why I'm lacking motivation, the more I miss the game. Funny how that works! But all in all, I believe that I have pretty much exhausted my resources in which I confide on this mission. There are 3 main players on my teams who I'll always listen to for advice. These 3 players play VERY differently. Let me give you a quick run down:

My other half - A very smart player. Very technical. Thinks things through all the way. Plays a mean defensive game. Hates to lose. Underestimates his ability and will take advice from those who he believes are better than he....no one else. Also the person who I spend the most time playing/practicing with so I would say I play most like him.

My captain - Very good player. Been playing for years. Can make almost any shot on the table and gets out of very tight situations. Takes a few fliers and random shots, but 95% of the time - those work. Believes in himself and believes in you and for the most part is light-hearted about the game........[unless its a tournament ;) ].

The highest rated player on our team - VERY good player. Also been playing for years. Can run a rack before you blink your eyes. Gets shape on every shot he takes. Good coach and will tell you straight when you're messin' up and how to change it. Also will make you play cautiously when he doesn't believe your shot making ability. Hates to lose. His attitude can get in the way when he's losing and not much faith when the team is losing. Will show you new things to improve your game.

Now, because they all play so differently - when I find myself when looking at a shot I'm not sure how to take, all 3 of them run through my mind.....what would they do? Of course my bf, but the other two as well - I love. We're all great friends and I'm comfortable asking any of them what I should do or how to change it if I miss. The problem I'm facing, is that now that I can play, have my own style and know what I would do.....I hear the same thing over and over and over from them. "Why didn't you? You should have... Take it this way.... " I'm starting to believe that I have absorbed all I can from them. They have their own styles and are pretty much set there. I'm still learning and I don't know how much more I can learn from them. Would I learn from others? Am I already stuck in MY way of playing?

How do you know when you're ready to move out of the comfort of you own home, leave all that you know, and face the world on your own???

as the world turns

2009-07-10T14:22:00.000-07:00

I haven't been getting in as much practice as I'd like lately. And when I do get some time, my mind seems consumed with life right now.

Life has been a bit stressful. Not like "oh, i spilled coffee on my shirt, I was late for work, I need gas" stupid crap stressful......but like "life is F&#$ed up right now" stressful. I won't bore you with details. Pool is usually my savior. Kind of like surfing used to be when I lived back home - before I moved to the desert. (Which by the way has officially reach disgusting 100 degree plus summer heat). When doing things I LOVE....my mind slips into a state of slight coma and nothing enters or leaves my mind. I get into rhythm and let my body do what its supposed to. I don't think about anything....I just do it!

For the past week or so, I've played decent on league nights. Not great, could use improvement, decent! Won all of my matches - both 8 and 9 ball. Not great wins, just wins. I'm one of those who thinks that even if I won, I feel like I played bad when it applies. I also know when I've played well.....even if I've lost.

Then there's practice. I some how have let everything but pool enter my mind when I'm at the table. EVERYTHING BUT POOL. Why you ask? Beats the crap outta me? How is this happening? Singing along to the music overhead, wearing the iPod, FOCUSING on my shots - nope! Nothing is helping. The minute I get my mind back on pool, my shot, the table layout, my last shot.....it all slips away. I just cannot stay focused.

...are you kidding me?

I was at a practice table one night while my bf was playing league - a team I'm not on. Was playing okay. Took some shots that I knew probably were not the best shots at the moment, but took them anyway (its practice right?) and managed to still win my games, though not in the best possible way. I also made some ridiculously hard shots work and got a few glares from opponents. Whatever! No one had stepped up to play after I won the last one so I decided to keep throwing balls on the table and keep shooting.

About 30 minutes goes by and a guy from the opposing team my bf's team was playing walks up to me -

Wanna play a quick game?

(Ugh ~ NO but okay. Only because you're actually playing league tonight and this is the one practice table available.)

Sure...rack 'um!

I break, eh - nothing special but manage to drop 3 balls. Three stripes. I take solids. (What? They were laid out nicely and I knew if I played right, I'd be out.) I didn't even stand up from my first shot and

You know you should have taken stripes? There were already 3 stripes down?

No shit....really? (I musta missed that part since I broke!)

Yeah, and if you had......

I kept shooting. Didn't look up once. Shot. Shot again. Shot again. And again and again. I got a little out of shape on my last ball.

Let me know if you want any help!

(One - I don't know you....two - I will NEVER ask you for help. I'm perfectly fine on my own and it was you who asked to practice with me since I had won and had the table ....remember. UGH!)

I shot and got PERFECT shape on the 8 ;)

I stood up - looked him in the eye - a fired the 8 in like a bat outta hell.

I'm sorry....you were saying?

The best part about that win is I knew in my heart that I didn't play well. That I can play much, much better than that. I guess I should get some practice in ;)

no deals :(

2009-06-30T13:11:00.000-07:00

Well so much for that. I found out on Friday night as I was practicing that I wasn't able to play in the tournament for the regional qualifier on Saturday :( You need to be on a current active roster and I'm not. Our team has participated in this league for over 3 years now and after a whole lot of drama (more than just your normal league drama) and a league operator who can never seem to keep his shit together - we quit. We moved that night of play to another league that most of us already play in. We actually like the new league with this team. We get to play a bit different style, play new faces and it doesn't seem so redundant.

On the other hand....its things like this that make me wish I still played. There are so many opportunities to play in Nationals with the league we left.....and I've basically given it all up. I'm in the process of debating which is worse? Playing for a league who's operator in our area CANNOT stay organized, playing against opponents who absolutely have nothing better to do than bitch, playing for a league who has cheated our team out of money, but yet getting to participate in tournaments, qualifiers, nationals........

OR

keeping my dignity and playing pool for and with others who actually respect the game. Now this league does have opportunities to play for their Nationals. Its just not as large of league and they're not as dominant in the industry.

I feel like I've invested A LOT of time and money into this part of my world. I guess its just frustrating to know that for as hard as I've worked....its not as attainable to be able to play and try to see where I stand against others.

I guess I'll just have to keep working at it - get better - and kick some ass elsewhere ;)

to play or not to play.....

2009-06-26T14:55:00.001-07:00

That IS the question!

I found out this morning that they're holding a qualifier TOMORROW for fall regionals - singles. Yes - they only gave 1 days notice. Ugh!

Well due to low funds and a bunch of byes for league I haven't played a whole heck of a lot in the last two weeks. So what's a girl to do? Do I practice tonight and go for the gusto tomorrow? I mean - what's the worst that could happen? I lose? Ugh - I hate that!!! On the bright side - I guess I would still have decent practice in for the week. And I was planning on practicing some tonight anyway. Or I can practice tonight and show up tomorrow with my "A" game and win......hhhhmmmmm.........

Decisions, decisions.

I guess I wouldn't be having second thoughts about this if I had actually played a little more this week. When I don't play for awhile I tend to think that every time I get to a table I'll mess up. My confidence drops to -20 below. I would feel much better knowing that I was playing well. I have nothing to gauge myself off of right now.

Also, they're going to be playing the qualifier at a local pool hall which consist of nothing but Diamond Tables. I actually much rather play on diamonds verses the crappy bar boxes at another pool hall we normally have to play our local league tournaments on. But shoot - 95% of my practice happens at my little neighborhood bar which has bar box tables. Decent ones....but nowhere near a Diamond bar box!!!

What would you do?

knowing is half the battle

2009-06-18T13:29:00.000-07:00

My other half and I play together - A LOT! Whether we're playing league nights or spending the day just practicing. I usually go with him even on nights I'm not on the team and he's cheered me on a few times too. He's a much better player so I learn a lot. Half the reason I think I get better is from playing with and watching him. The better he gets, the better I get. (Most of the time) Here's the problem.....I'm stubborn, very stubborn. I have to ask questions, be shown a shot that works and why. But I by no means like to be "told what to do". (hey- I'm only human). He's the opposite - "do what I say and you'll figure it out"!

Um, no! I wasn't asking those questions for my health.

As a lower player, I'm going argue, ask questions, and want to know why. I think its natural. Wouldn't we lower players not ask if we knew what we were doing....or knew what the hell you were talking about?!?!?

When people talk to my bf and I about pool in general, I've always said: He's the technical one - I'm the creative one.

I'm sorry, is there something wrong with that?

When I say technical....he learns very different. He needs to be told something once and he will practice that shot, safe, whatever it is - over, and over, and over until he gets it and knows why. He can read something and then execute. If he doesn't know the answer or why to something, he will research, read, and read some more. He remembers shots that he misses and will practice until he gets it. There is nothing wrong with that.

Now I on the other hand......

Creative. I need to be shown whatever it is we're talking about. I need to touch, feel, see....all of it. I want to be told where to hit and how to hit. I want to see it done before I even try. I can read something if it speaks to me. If its technical - I lose interest and start skimming. I also remember shots that I make. I feel like they work and the more I do them, the more comfortable I become and better I'll get with them. Only the major, MAJOR, game winning, heart pounding misses do I remember. And I'll never take that shot again. Why? Because it didn't work out. And I HATE to lose, remember?

We've argued time and again about how and why each other plays. Because we don't see things the same way - we just go around in circles.

So he comes across this article the other day and tells me to read it. It comes from Tom Simpson: An industry figure, who has been playing since he was 12. He's a professional billiards instructor (BCA master instructor) who runs his own clinics.

Holy crap - it is EXACTLY what my bf and I have been trying to say to each other and seem to continue to argue about when it comes to teaching, learning, and playing. Now....its just in terms that we can both understand.

It probably doesn't hurt that someone else is the one saying it all so now we believe it ;)

You can read the article HERE along with many other great articles from him. Everything I've read from him - just makes sense. Definitely get your read on with him.

you've lost that lovin' feelin....

2009-06-09T09:50:00.000-07:00

We didn’t win. We didn't play our best, didn’t listen to each other, we fought aimless battles with unforeseen circumstances, we lost composure, and we didn’t win.

Saturday

8-ball city tournament

Things started off with our league operator telling us that one of our players was ineligible for play. We had made a valid effort to make sure that he had enough games in during the regular session to play in the city tournament so our team captain spent the first 20 minutes handling that situation. While in debate, our league operator also tells us that another player of ours (who happens to be my other half) can’t play! My other half is one of our strongest players.....this is not going to be good.

What?!?!?! What in the hell are you talking about?!?!?!

Our league operator tells us that he owes money. For what?! He claims that my bf’s team for another night was short on funds for the session. So you don’t let him know this – hhhmmm, I don’t know – maybe during that session! You couldn’t have picked up the phone and called us about this? You couldn’t have said this during the 8-ball or 9ball tri-annuals that happened last month and you let him play in? Or maybe during the 9-ball city tournament that you allowed him to play in 2 weeks ago? But now, during 8-ball cities where we know we are going to have the best shot at this, you want to tell him he can't play.....one of our strongest players.....hhhmmmmm....... Whatever!!!!

Things are off to a F*&%$# up start!

The tournament is modified singles and 3 out of 5 games in a wins the match. The first team we play is a strong team. They have an even spread of handicaps and all shoot well.

MATCH ONE

Game one – we lose.

Game two – we lose.

Game three – our captain plays. He’s down 0-2 and his opponent is on the hill. F!!! Well our captain, bless his heart….. doesn’t give up and comes back to win! What?!?! We’ve got a chance.

Game four - Haha. Just kidding. The pool gods decide that our captain’s game was just to tease us a bit and we lose. I HATE THIS GAME!

Since we’re in a modified single tournament, we get one more chance to play. We end up with a bye spot and advance one round. We sit around for a good 3.5 hours before our next match. We’re tired, we’re cranky, we’re hungry, and we’re losing patience.

MATCH 2

Game one – we win.

Game two – we win.

Game three – we win.

What?!?!?! Sweet deals….we come back tomorrow.

I played the first game in match 2. I feel like I played okay. Nothing great. I got lucky a few times when my opponent scratched and gave me ball in hand. I still over cut A LOT of balls and seemed to roll a little short of everything. I’m not sure if this is because I tried to slow down and play cautiously or if I just couldn’t find the umph to put into my shots.

Sunday

We’re up against a team that we’ve beaten countless times. We don’t take them lightly, but know how they play and think we should have the upper hand. Wrong!

Game one – we lose.

Game two – we lose.

Game three – we lose. GAME OVER.

I played and lost the first game. I followed balls in. I scratched cross sides. I couldn’t make straight shots. I have no clue what was wrong with me. I REALLY wanted this. Even when I was down, I thought "you can do this...you can come back". UGH!!!! I of course had faith in my team mates to pick me up. Even after our second loss....not once did I think it was over.... I thought there are 3 other players to win the last 3 games. We got this!

My captain on the other hand - lost all faith and was pissed after that second match. Hell - I knew he was mad when I lost my game. He straight said "that's it - we're done". I looked him dead in the eye and said "Really? That's some great team spirit! Have some faith! You came back and won a third match for us yesterday. What happened to believing in your team? If you dont' give a shit....then why the F are we here?" ....... and walked away! Probably not the best way to handle the situation, but I was pissed. Now at that point there was one more match, but I refused to sit with all the negativity. Of course we were down 2 games, but lets be real about the situation. No one, NO ONE, woke up that morning and said "I'm going to lose today". So have some f'n faith in your team and lets win the last 3!!!

Well it didn't happen. As soon as it was over - our captain turned in the score sheet....and walked out. Didn't say anything to us and was gone. Half of us didn't even know he left. Well there's some love, huh?!?! Don't get me wrong....I love our captain...I love our team. We're not just a pool team, we're actually friends and hang out together - even outside of pool. So I was beyond a little annoyed with his attitude. WE ALL WANTED TO WIN!!! YOU'RE NOT THE ONLY ONE!!!!

Sometimes I wonder......

If you believe in something SO hard - then why do you change your mind about it when it's sitting in your possession?

TAR...

2009-06-04T12:22:00.000-07:00

I've just been informed that The Action Report has a blog!!! Well actually is kind of a personal blog for Justin....but check it out. He's a funny, funny, guy!

Click here for your reading pleasure: TAR