In the last article I discussed how hand selection in no limit hold em is based on variables other than just position. In future articles I will continue with the discussion of no limit hold em and the influence of the different variables in the no limit structure. I let my mind wander a little too much lately and after a rather lengthy fight with the typewriter I think it wandered a little too far. The book writing and the daily live poker had become such a grind that I decided to skip the WSOP and the faster paced Las Vegas scene and slow down to a more lazy life style for the summer. So I packed up the SUV and the boat (to the hilt) and headed to my cabin along with the kids.

One might wonder how I could miss the WSOP. The fact is, the WSOP was the furthest thing from my mind these past two years. I have learned long ago that there are some things in life that are more important to me than fame and fortune. Yes, it would be nice to win a bracelet (or two), but my family is more important to me right now. There will be plenty of time to chase the rest of my dreams when the kids go off chasing their own. For now, I am content to take some time off, do a little reflection of the past year, and enjoy the time with my kids. Yes, I am still dabbling in poker (both playing and writing), just not to the same extent that I usually do. I can't play much live poker where I am but the income I have generated so far has more than paid the bills. Trying to find a decent no limit hold em game is all but impossible unless I want to do a little traveling. That just is not going to be happening anytime soon. I already did the travel thing and am in no hurry to repeat that experience.

My break from the daily grind does bring up several important points to consider in your own life. Are you taking any breaks from your daily grind? One piece of advice that is often given when your luck goes sour at the poker table is to take a break away from the game. Sometimes, a better idea is to take a break away from the game even when you are not on a losing streak and before your game goes sour (luck alone isn't always the only cause). A little break in the structure or the usual limits you normally play can add a healthy dose of "reality check" back into a poker player's life as well. One really does lose the value of money when playing for a living or even when playing too often as an amateur. The roller coaster ride definitely wreaks havoc on the psyche as well. Recharging my batteries this summer is just what this Doctor ordered for himself and it is the best advice I think I ever received (don't take this article to your boss as an excuse for missing work last week as I doubt he/she will accept it as a letter from the doctor)

In regards to my book, I had some respected players and colleagues review it and have taken some of their opinions to heart. The editing process will probably take up the rest of the summer. In the meantime, I have been pleasantly surprised by the response to being placed on the e mail listing to be notified when the book becomes available. You can continue to reach me at my email address @ SAJABE79@MSN.COM. I promise my next article will get back on track on no limit hold em.