Black & White, Yin & Yang, Rich & Poor, Denna & Dallas

I like the idea of opposites. Things not meshing together because they are not meant to. This design created by God is for a reason. I am not one for questioning Gods design or his purpose for why things happen. However, I am one for admiring the creativeness of God's hand. I was a witness of something I was very blessed to see. It was Christmas eve and my family and I were at our home churches candle light service. When it came time to light each one of our candles we all did so and listened to the preachers inspirational words. The words were strong and meaningful, I was struck with emotion when I heard them. Nothing prepared me though for the affect it had on my children. I looked to my left at Dallas my 8 year old son with his lit candle in his little hand and crocodile tears in both eyes. My son was getting emotional after hearing the preacher talk about Christ being the light of our lives. How much Christ loves all of us. How we ourselves as
Christians can and should be a light for weaker people by showing them christ's love through our lives. After seeing this in my young sons eyes brought me to my knees emotionally. I felt joy that he can understand what it feels to get emotional. I felt convicted that I was being moved by a certain kind of service, rather then just being moved by God's presence in my life. I also had the privilege of feeling the great blessing of pride. Yes pride, pride that my son felt Gods presence in his own life. I am blessed everyday by my childrens differences. During my sons emotional time I glanced over at Denna. My beautiful 11 year old little girl was playing with the candle wax. She had no tears in her eyes and was wondering where we were having dinner that night. I'll be honest at first I was dissapointed that her reaction to the service wasn't emotional or moving to her at all. My thought was how could she not feel anything?? It only took me a several hours
to realize that by asking the question why didn't she feel anything I was actually asking God why did you make my kids different?? When I said that to myself I was mad that I could even think such a thing. You see I'm blessed that my children are so different. I want my kids to have their own minds, their own opinions, and have independent emotions. If I said why they are so different I question Gods plan for their lives. I think Gods plan for Dallas will allow his emotions of compassion and sensitivity to be used to help others. Denna's strong personality causes her to be tough skinned and a hard shell to crack, but will help others by showing strength. She will also need that tough skin to deal with issues in her life. I'm very happy with how Christ bring things to light when the time is right and your mind is wide open. Ironicly on Christmas eve God gave me a gift. It was the gift of seeing the beauty of my childrens differences. Publicly I just want
to say thank you God for our two children, I am truly amazed at your artist hand when I look at their faces.

Keeping It Skinny,
FlacoJake

On The Mend... On The Way To The ER.

Let me give you a little play by play. I have had bronchitis for almost 3 weeks. This weekend was the first weekend I actually felt pretty good. I still have a moderate cough, but its tolerable. I was excited to go to church this morning. I saw many friends that I haven't seen in a while. All of them asking how are you doing?? I gave them the same answer I always give I just said been doing fine. Not wanting to burden anyone else with a story of coughing my lungs out and feeling like poopie for weeks. I shook their hand and went on about my day. Heres the ironic part. I told someone this morning I think I'm finally getting better. Well, guess what I'm laying in a bed at Harris hospital with pain in my ribs. I'm waiting for them to perform a EKG and an Xray. This is quite frustrating to say the least. I'm thinking about the sermon I heard this morning about how trials show our true character. So how much longer until my true character is going to show??
Because I'm getting a little tired of waiting on this trial to finish.

Keeping It Skinny,
FlacoJake

Jakedp1980@yahoo.com

Miami Ink, L.A. Ink, Flaco Ink

Most of you know that I have a tattoo. If you didn't know you do now. My tattoo is on my right shoulder. Its of three joining rings with the word THR33. My tattoo has great meaning to me. Its a symbol of a bond between my two bothers and I have with one another. All three of us have the same tattoo in the same place. I really like things that have great meaning, espescially things that are going to be permantly on my skin. I have been wanting to get another tattoo for years. I have even come up with several designs, but have not done anything yet. Both of my brothers have gotten other tattoos. Even my wife has multiple tattoos. I just can't decide what I want to stamp on my body. I have several things that I would like to have tattooed that tell a story. I also have some ideas that I think are just cool. I just can't decide if I should get something fun or meaningful. With me being so "lean" or "fat challenged" I'm limited in where and how many tattoos I
can get. I am pretty sure that I will be getting a large tattoo on my back and perhaps one on my forearm. If I get both of them I will have to be done because I will have no more room. How many of you have tattoos that are very meaningful and how many of you have tattoos that are just fun tattoos?? I'm putting my email addy on all my posts now so feel free to comment here or by email. This post I'm sure is probably the most boring post I have ever written but hey sometimes I'm boring. This was just me thinking in text.

Keeping It Skinny,
FlacoJake

Jakedp1980@yahoo.com

What's Plan B??

So my decision to play smarter poker has worked out GREAT!! I am down about $400 in less then a week. I am successful at one thing second guessing my previous decision.

Keeping It Skinny,
FlacoJake

Positive Evolution

My decision to play smarter poker became a reality last night. I was very happy with how I played last night. I finished the night being stuck $60, but it wasn't from playing like a donk. I credit my loss to one bad read and one huge pot. We were four handed, ATC Dave L was SB, Scott was BB, Dad had straddled for $2, I double straddled for $4. Dave called the $4, Scotty raised to $10, Dad folded, I called the other $6 with J7 of club, and Dave called. I really didnt put Scott on anything other then a small pocket pair or something like QJ. The flop came out with an ace and a 7 plus a blank card, Scott made a continuation bet of $10, I called the $10 thinking I have the best hand. The turn brought a king of diamonds putting three diamonds on the board. I bet $10, Scott raises to $20, still feeling like he was pushing me I went all in. Scott went into the tank wondering if I hit the flush. He repeatedly ask me "did you hit the flush??" he even sent me a
text during the hand reading "did you hit the flush??" After him thinking for a couple of minutes he called with top two pair. Taking down a $160 pot. In retrospect of the hand I don't think I played it poorly. I really didnt put him on that big of a hand, and being in my betting position, and outchipping him by about $20, it wasn't a bad move. If the turn brought a diamond that wasn't a king giving him his 2nd pair, he folds. After that big loss I reloaded for $20 more. Played for a while up then down, I ran into another hand with Scott. Flopping a flush made me feel great. Then a fourth diamond on the turn gave Scott the nut flush and me the second nuts. At 2:00 am we ended the game with a game of 7 card no peek for $7 per man. I sweated out a straight to the six. I was golden with one card left in dads hand. Rubbing his card miyagi style like he does trying to maverick his card into the one he needs. He is dead to a jack, and what happens?? He rivers
the jack!! What a stupid game!! I think I will start taking a 80% rake on the stupid no peek games dad magicly never loses at. All in all I was pleased with the game I played even though I lost money. I think I saved myself quite a bit of money playing smarter rather then harder.

Keeping It Skinny,
FlacoJake

Back To The Basics

I have made a decision. Over the last several months my desire to play focused poker everytime I play has been non existent. I have been playing just to play. I find myself playing in a cash game to push the action for other players to have a good time. This is a very expensive way to keep a game going. This year I have cashed very well, and have had the best win rate I have ever had since I started playing poker. This being said I can only wish I had kept my focus and not donked off 1/4 of my winnings. What does all this mean to all of you?? I dunno dog, probably nothing!! I am still going to embrace the playful style that I have grown to love, I will just be trying to limit my mistakes. Bottom line is I'm getting back to wanting to learn each time I play. Stay tuned to see if I stay commited to this post. LOL

Keeping It Skinny,
FlacoJake

2008 Main Event Final Table Set.

So the players left to battle for the 9 mil plus first prize of the 2008 WSOP main event is set. Out of the 9 remaining players 6 of them are pro poker players. This really says quite a bit about the poker boom and where poker is going. The average pro poker player seems to be around 25-27 years old, where's sunglasses at the table, wears a full tilt logo, plays very agressivly, and likes to shout "one time!! Come on one time!!" I should give this generations poker player their due props considering their success speaks very loudly. I will be looking into all the players at this years final table, and I will deliver some pre-play bios for each player. The final nine will have almost have an entire 4 months before starting final table play. This because of ESPN's decision to ensure production time. Actually, I'm sure the real reason for this decision is because its all about the benjemins!! This decision will boost the amount of final table viewers, and
boost revenue for WSOP sponsors. I don't think the final 9 have a problem with this ruling either. I mean if I was guaranteed 900k I would gladly hire a big name pro for 4 months of poker lessons. Also, if I was chip leader imagine the chopping deals that could be made between players. And can you imagine the sponsorship possiblities?? I am expecting the final 9 to look like nascars. Their clothes littered with logos of every poker company that exists. I am also guessing that the single male players will also get the opportunity to find their cylicone soulmates while waiting paitently for their 900k-9million dollar payday. I will be following the "November 9" and will keep you up to date.

Keeping It Skinny,
FlacoJake

MD Camp 2008

So Denna and Dallas are at muscular dystrophy camp for the week. I was so excited for them because this is by far the best week of the summer for them. This week is also a break from the everyday hussle and bussle of everday life for Candace and I as well. Of course needless to say I miss the kids and its only been two days. They will be back on Friday and with a hundred stories to tell. Thanks so much to everyone that donates to MDA each year. The money raised helps my kids and many others the ability to no longer be a disabled minority. Camp allows my daughter to shine as a performer and be seen for her personality rather than her disability. Camp also provides my son the opportunity to embrace his leader personality rather than the neccessity follower position. This is truly the best medicine. Thanks

Keeping It Skinny,
FlacoJake

Poker School For Free

If you want to go to a 2 hour poker school taught by Daniel Negraneau then set your TiVo to the Pokerstars Carribian Adventure on GSN. This was a great teaching tool listening to Daniel go over every hand as if he was playing it. His strategy for every person at the table was first class play. I was so impressed I broke out a pad and pencil to take some notes. If that doesn't scream poker geek I don't know what does. The final table play was not all that impressive, but the teaching by Daniel through the other players play was phenominal. Watch it you will be glad you did.

Keeping It Skinny,
FlacoJake

Hey Its Me Again!!

Wow, its been ages since I posted anything on here. I don't really know why I haven't its not like I don't have anything to say. If you know me well then you know I am seldom lost for words. A lot has transpired since my last post. I have figured out I have a muscle disease called muscular dystrophy, I got married, I had two kids, and I made up a card game called Texas holdem. I think it will really take off, maybe even better then blackjack.

Getting truthful now. Not much has been going on worth blabbing about. I am still playing cards whenever possible. I am also studying people still. I'm getting excited with my kids about this summers Disney world trip. I have several graphic designing projects going on as well. If you are waiting for a deep thought on this post don't read anymore of this one. I have some really good posts coming up very soon. Please be on the lookout for some pointed life questions. I would love to get your two cents on any of the upcoming posts. Its been good getting my keyboard going again !! Until next time.

Keeping It Skinny,
FlacoJake

Flaco Son

I was recently reminded of how much of a dork, geek, goofball I really am. What was my reminder do you ask?? The Karate Kid was on the other day and I recorded it. I just got finished watching it. This is by far one of classics of all time. The cobra kai's feathered hair styles. The bangs and black headband on teenage villian Johnny Lawrence. Even the worn out Nike sneakers Daniel Larusso wore. The reminder came to me in realizing how AWESOME I think all this is. Who in the hooey still thinks The Karate Kid is still a cool movie?? I do for sure. So I must rank in the geeky 80's crowd. I was very surprised the outlook I have when watching this movie. I remember being 5 or 6 and thinking this guy is the bestest karate guy ever. I also remember thinking that my grandfather must be a karate master and he was teaching me an art passed down to him like the generations before him. Ummmm, not so much. My brothers and I were just dumbass grandkid work horses. I
guess the hint should have been, no catchy symbolic fighting analogies. Like "Look eye always look eye" or "First learn stand then learn fly". Instead it was "Drink, you will get heat stroke if you don't" or "Add water to that paint it will make it last longer". Make no mistake all analogies by both wise old men are priceless and I take them to heart. I don't think people realize how much old men and woman in our lives really affect our lives, for life. I love to joke about my grandfathers little quirks and his old sayings, but my grandfathers have been instrumental to me in learning about life. I challenge you who read this to give the Mr. Miyagi in your life a call and say thanks for teaching you to "Wax on wax off, sand the floor, paint the fence, paint the house, breathe in breathe out, look eye always look eye, and the best one BANZAI!!!!!!!!!"

Keeping It Skinny,
Flaco son Jake

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I Changed My Mind A Bit.

My last post has been online for quite a while now. The reason why I have not posted anything lately is because I have changed my mind on what I wrote about. I wanted my next post to explain how and why this change came about. Several people that I would consider "wise" men and women have read my last post. These people have brought to my attention some interesting points. Some of these points, opinions, and biblical referrences actually contridicted my view a bit. I still hold true to my opinion on many levels but I have examined my writing and need to voice how God continues to help me grow. In my last post I spoke about my opinion on how I do not think christians need to constantly defend the bible and their beliefs. This statement I made is not all the way true. There are two differant situations a christian is going to have his or her beliefs challenged. My opinion in my previous post holds true when the challenger is not seeking sincere information. Basicly when a person is just trying to peck a fight or get you riled up then its time to hush up and be the bigger person. In this situation no matter what you say or try prove is not going to change the challengers attitude. However, if a person comes to you with questions seeking sincere spiritual information or advice then IT IS a christians job to help guide them. It should be very easy to tell the differance between the two situations. I want people who read this to know that all of these are my opinions only. I love posting a public journal, but I don't want my thoughts to be a stumbling block to anyones growth in Christ. I try and live a life that Christ would be proud of, but I fall short very often. I want people to understand I am a growing christian man who is far from calling himself a godley man. I encourage everyone to get into God's word whenever possible and form your own beliefs that you feel confident in and be able to explain why you are confident in that belief. But always be aware of what situation your in. Explainging yourself to provide information, or explaining for defense. Thanks for reading this and feel free to comment whenever you want.

 

Keeping It Skinny,

FlacoJake

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Is The Bible A Bluff??

I was listening to a conversation at a poker table on how to defend the bible's integrity to other people. The people in the discussion were trying to come up with several historic facts that could prove the stories from the bible. This is a very common strategy to protect ones beliefs in the bible. Often times a man that gets asked the question "how do you know that stuff in the bible really happened??" Its really confusing to me why people have no problem ridiculing someone for their beliefs, because they don't believe the same thing. If I approched that same person about their disbeliefs in the bible it would not go the same way. The bible is a tool that God designed to help us in our daily lives. This is my belief. My belief is that the bible is God's word, God inspired several writers to write this feast we call the bible. I don't partake of this feast as much as I should, but its also my belief that God doesn't just limit his communication to speaking to us through his word. Its very agravating when I see a non-believer going after a "lamb" thinking they are weak. I have seen it even in my own family. Here is a common example; a man goes to his friend who has been going to church for a short period of time and asks, why do you believe in God and the bible?? This always makes me see red a bit. In this day and age a believer even a baby believer feel it is their duty to defend the integrity of the bible. Why do belivers feel this way?? Why do we feel its our job to make people understand the bible, when we ourselves don't fully understand it?? I have personally been involved in several of these situations. The people questioning my beliefs or questioning the bible's accuracy, or historic relevantcy have been very confused by my responces. When confronted with the question "how do you know if the bible is real??" I simply answer "how do you know its not??" If confronted with another question (always another question) such as, "if you feel so confident that the bible is truth then why not show me more proof??" another simple answer is given "why do I need to prove my belief to you, I'm not asking you to prove your disbelief to me." My next answer usually quiets the questions at least for a few moments while they try and understand what I just said. I simply apply the basic tolerence and understanding Christ did while standing in front of Pilot. Although Christ had the power to free himself during his scurging or before his crusifiction, he did not. How is this relevant to my story?? Just like Christ, we have the power to defend ourselves and our beliefs, but Christ already proved himself for us by dieing on the cross. If a person decides not to believe this that is their choice, just like it is my choice to believe it. I also feel that it is not my job to make people believe in what I do, so I will not aggressivly defend my God's word. When posed with the oppurtunity to rumble with someone in a spiritual battle it is a very dangourous spot for even the most faithful believers. The reason it is powerfully dangerous, is we are all sinners and we all fall short of God's plans for our lives. This makes us at times very poor examples or ambassadors of Christ's teachings and comandments. I don't know about all of you but that is a lot of pressure. So if ever confronted with these powerful questions, just remember keep it simple. I am a simple man I believe in the bible because I choose to do so, and my belief will not waiver until I choose to do so. Bottom line is, God's abundant love is given to ALL people. If they dont believe in him he still loves them the same as he loves the most faithful. How do I know this is true?? It says so in the bible!!

 

Keeping It Skinny,
FlacoJake

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This Really Blows!!

Its been a wonderful week boys and girls. Tuesday I dealt a good buddies power poker game made some money and gave some money away on a stupid game of swoosh. Wednesday spent the day at home with no voice and a cough and my sick daughter. Here's where it gets pathetic. Thursday Feb. 14th 2008 its freaking valentines day!! Its what I like to call guaranteed nookie night. And!! And!! Its my freaking birthday!! What I also like to call guaranteed hooters wings for dinner and nookie night. Instead I was at the Dr's office with bronchitis and an upper respitory infection. Driving home I am realizing I am not going to be getting any nookie tonight. However, thanks to my pop I did get some hooters wings for dinner. Also because of pop I did get to play some poker too. It was a heads up match between me and him for $50 bucks. I ended up beating him and it wasn't better timing because minutes later I had a bad reaction to my antibiotics was up for 4 hours ready
to hurl. Happy mother loving birthday to me!! I remember thinking tomorrow is going to be better, I will have had antibiotics in my system, I get to play poker tomorrow night, maybe I might get some cash presents from some of my poker buds, all positives. All I gotta say is I must have been toked up for thinking that. Instead I spent the morning blowing rainbow colored snot and boogers out of my nose with no voice again. Then being told by my wife she called the Dr. and he now thinks an ER trip is in order to rule out phneumonia. With this decision I realize I probably won't be playing poker tonight. At the ER they rule out phneumonia and just switch my meds. I am feeling pretty good so I ask Candace "hey don't you think I could go play poker tonight, at least till about 8:30pm??" Umm, if you know my wife you know what the answer was. So its 7:30pm I'm at home in bed watching recordings of poker after dark, wishing I was donking my chips off. To twist
the knife even more I still don't see myself getting any nookie tonight! But hey I'm not bitter, and besides its cheaper if I stay home. But my good buddy Eloy V. commented "all the dead money is sick, so why go??" You playas can eat my shorts! I'll be rounding again soon.

Keeping It Skinny,
FlacoJake

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Planet Starbucks

On the way to church this morning we stopped to get Candace some coffee. Little did I know but we were going to a differant planet to buy her coffee. Our shuttle arrived at a brick building with a drive through window. On a sign as you enter the atmosphere to this planet had a strange language and strange writing. Words like venti, mochachino, frapachino, maciato and many others I can't pronounce. I was already concerned about my safety on this planet when a voice came over a speaker. On this planet I'm not sure how to determine the gender of its inhabitants. The voice sounded almost male but had quite a female twang especially when repeating the order back. I was oblivious on how to speak starbukian so I let Candace order her own. It was actually quite impressive to listen to her quickly spout off their very odd language. After ordering we drove to the next window to pay. This is when I realized that planet earth coffee money was no good here. Here at
planet starbucks an earthlings usual fifty cents for coffee has been replaced by a five dollar bill. After paying and then starting to drive off I start to wonder, how many trips to this planet does Candace make each week?? Do I really want to know??

Keeping It Skinny,
FlacoJake

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Mashed Potatoes Is My Favorite Meal.

I was talking with Candace the other day about meatloaf. Our conversation was a debate on whether or not meatloaf is a meal. She says that meatloaf is an entree that is supposed to have side items such as veggies. I told her that meatloaf is a entire meal in it self. You have meat, some dehydrated onions, and of course ketchup.

This got me to explaining a bit about my childhood too Candace. At the Pettigrew household times were very tough financially. So, our family meals were a little differant from other families.

Top Ten Pettigrew Dinners

10. Eggs and Grits
9. Cereal
8. Ramen Noodles
7. Chicken Soup with Carrots
6. Chicken Soup with Green Beans
5. Macaroni & Cheese with Hamburger
4. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
3. Chicken and Rice
2. Spagetti
1. Mashed Potatoes

I now know that these meals may be a little confusing for some of you. Yes, spagetti is a meal by itself. Bread?? What is that for?? Veggie sides?? For what??

At my house one of these dishes was in our eyes a full course meal. And at least half of these dishes were full course breakfast, lunches, and dinners. Because my mom made enough leftovers to feed us the next few days. Don't misunderstand me, sometimes we ate high on the hog. Roast with mashed potatoes and velveeta shells and cheese was our filet mignon. But the meat was gone that night everytime. However, there was always a lot of my favorite stuff left for days to come. That is why my favorite meal to this day is Mashed Potatoes.

I love going back and thinking about old times. If my family did not have these mashed potatoe times of trouble, we wouldn't have the mashed potatoe times of triumph.

Keeping It Skinny,
FlacoJake

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Flaco's Poker Theasaurus

I know for some people many poker terms are hard to understand. I am a self proclaimed simple minded man, so I decided to take some of these terms and explain them in a simple way.

Being Stuck: This is another term for being down in money. Example Jake is a dumb ass who keeps reaching into his little money bag like a crack addict. $20 after $20!

Being on the come: this term means you are betting or staying in a hand hoping to improve your hand with the cards to come out next. Example: calling bets with a flush draw hoping to hit on the river. Example 2: your a dumbass card chaser!!

Going South: this term means taking cash or chips off the table, but still playing at the table. Example: you buyin for $100 you double up too $200 so you decide to put $100 in your pocket and play on profit only. Example 2: your a rude greedy dumbass!

Implied odds: this term means making a decision to play a hand by calculating how much money you will have to pay in the course of the hand. Example: a short stack raises you hold 89 suited. You have to calculate before calling if its worth playing the hand because he will most likely be all in before the end of the hand. Example 2: you a dumbass who plays 89 suited.

Pot Odds: this means calculating the amount in the pot and the amount of money it takes to call. Example: there's twenty blue chips in the pot pre flop and it only cost you 2 or 4 to call you gettin good pot odds. Example 2: your getting 5 to 1 on your money so you call down to the river with 83 offsuit and hit yo straight. This type of move is made by a d.d.p.o.c. Which means dumbass donkey pot odds caller! Example of ddpoc: GoodChuck!!

I'm just kidding pop. I'm just razzing ya. Your not a ddpoc, cause sometimes when you call your not getting good pot odds. I love ya!

Keeping It Skinny,
FlacoJake

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Praying For Sleep

In bed at 10:00pm. Asleep for first time after 2am. Dern this sucks!! Refusing to take any narcotic sleep aid. I lay there thinking ok mom told me maybe God has me up to pray for someone. So, I lay there close my eyes and start to pray this prayer "Lord its 2am I would like to fall asleep. If I'm up to pray for someone then here I am. I am not angry with you Lord for keeping me up to pray, but I bet the person that needs prayer is sawing logs right now. Also I would like to ask you if this is going to be an ongoing deal do you think I could do my praying during the day?? If not its cool cause like I said I'm here for ya. But since no one really is popping out in my head lemme just say thanks for allowing me to live. Be with my fam through tomorrow and keep all my friends and family safe. I'll check ya later. Amen."

Before praying I think I counted every sheep I could think of even the black ones. I tried to think about one thing to focus on, it came to be replaying hands of poker. Not good for insomnia! Especially thinking about flopping a set of tens, getting all your money in with the best hand, and then a suckout on the river. (Bitterness?? Never heard of it.) Anyway I tried all the normal stuff to get to sleep. In the end it was a prayer that knocked me out for the night. Gotta give my madre some props for the hep! I think my praying needs to be done a lil earlier. If you need prayer lemme know, cause I'm up!! I gotcha covered. Buenos Noches!!

Keeping It Skinny,
FlacoJake

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Estrogen Poisoning

Today was girl day at the Flaco house. After several poker dollars spent on new paint for my room and some new home decor, it was time for a jewelry party. As you can probably guess Dallas and I wanted to be as far away from all that estrogen as possible. I explained the danger of estrogen poisoning and our lack of gender specific glandular curves we were not issued so we needed to leave (just kidding). So, 2:40pm arrived it was time for us to hit it. We got into the car and I had no idea what we were going to do to occupy ourselves. Bright idea number one "let's go to a movie". We drive to the local theater to find out nothing is playing that fits our schedule or age group. Bright idea number two "let's go get daddys wheelchair and go to the mall". That was quickly shot down by Dallas because the percentage of toy stores versus all the other stores was not in good favor. So we finally arrived at a decision to run back by the house grab his transformers
and find a place to play. Well guess where we arrived the wendys/target parking lot. I needed some food so I got me some wendys we parked and jammed to the sounds of the iPhone. Here is where the fun began for me.

Dallas perked his head up and asked me "Daddy why are we in the car sitting in the parking lot and sissy and mommy are at the house?? We could be there playing or doing something fun too". I thought to myself man oh man is he having a crap time! But I sensed the question was not asked in the disgust of his fun factor not being met. I quickly told him that our day was a sacrifice day. Today was a day that as a husband, daddy, and brother we sacrifice our time and comfort zone for mommy and sissy. I could tell the wheels were turning and then it clicked. He looks at me and says "kind of like when jazz sacrifices his life fighting brave in transformers??" he even took his realization to the next step by saying "just like Jesus did too??" I was speechless and very proud of him. I confirmed his assumption with a frog in my throat and a nod. We were able to end our time out with a stroll into target where he was able to purchase with his own money a new, you
guessed it transformer. Needless to say first words from his mouth after opening were "daddy can you transform this??" With thoughts of our earlier conversation I immediatly pulled the car to the side of the road and transformed his new toy.

I wanted to end this post by saying how proud I am of both of my kids. Everyday they make me happy I'm alive. Each day they seperately help me in their own way put one foot in front of the other. They also remind me that everyday Candace and I are there as guides to God's basic life principles. I was brought up with the same simple and basic views on love, faith, hope, and so many other life topics. I want my childrens eyes to see our lives as the right examples and that be all the training they need. My dad has always told me kids are like VCR's they record everything that we do and say. That holds a lot of truth, good and bad. The bad part is sometimes parents are stupid! The good thing about that is sometimes as parents we get to press pause and rewind. In doing that we get to relearn some of the small yet most important life lessons through them.

Keeping It Skinny,
FlacoJake

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Crowley Poker Series

Last night kicked off the 2008 Crowley Poker Series aka Tom and Mike's game. The new points system was very well recieved by all players present. It was a little on the light side for players. With several out of towners and just some plain ole no shows. The total count at shuffle and deal time was 9. It was fast and furious to say the least. The new chip count started everyone out with a healthy 4000 in chips. However, some people gave them away like they were stolen. I knew I should play a little conservative when the second pot consisted of three players and a pot worth around 10k. For the 9 player night 3 were paid. It ended up in my eyes as the outcome of the seasons final game. Tom B. coming in third paying $46, Mike N. coming in second paying $64, and myself taking first paying $112. The after game cash game was also very fruitful for me. Buying in for $20 my total cash out amount was around $25 in profit. But because I was feeling generous, I
gave my good buddy John some chip help by spotting him $10 on credit. I left the game feeling very good about how I played. I was also able to substantiate and confirm certain player reads I spotted in previous sessions. In summary it was a great game. The casual and layed back atmosphere really made the whole night a success. Thanks Mike and Tom for putting on a great tournament. Can't wait until Feb. 9th to do it again.

Keeping It Skinny,
FlacoJake

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Back from my trip.

Who knew a trip that you slept all the way through could be so painful. I had my self a lithotrip today. A lithotripsy is a procedure where they use sound waves to abliterate kidney stones and crystals to aid in passing them.
I am now home and resting semi comfortably. I can honestly say I was very anxious about this for several reasons. One reason is I was told 4 different times 4 differant doctors were performing the procedure. Comforting thought number 2 was my report from my xrays said the stone was in my right kidney, the dr and all the procedure paperwork said left. Meeting with the surgery nurse I just told them before you go to bustin make sure its a kidney stone and not one of my testicles. Needless to say they did bust up a stone about the size of a asprin on my right side. Now its time for recovery. Over the next 3 days I have to drink 10-12 glasses of water a day, rest, no heavy lifting, and no sex. I also have the classy and appealing task of straining my urine! T.M.I.?? If it is I don't care.
Before my wonderful asshoe friends can razz me. I'm going to do it myself.

Yes, I had one of my "stones" removed.
No, I don't feel less of a man for having a "stone" removed..
Yes, my "stone" was the size of an asprin.
No, the nurse did not laugh at the size of my "stones".
And yes, this time it is painful to get your "rocks" off.

I think that just about covers it, but I'm sure my more creative friends will still give me the business. Anyway boys and girls I got punched in the kidney today so I'm going to take my meds strain my urine and go to bed. Till mañana!!

Keeping It Skinny,
FlacoJake

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I am a semi pro gigolo.

Reading a poker article today got me to pondering the title "semi pro". The author of the article boasts that he is a semi pro poker player. He goes on saying he plays low stakes home games and uses his winnings for living expenses. But he also says he has a regular 9-5er to supplement for any loose ends. Ok. Question is the semi pro title valid?? I need some insight on this subject. Maybe this semi pro title means he is only pro twice a year, maybe it means he's only pro when he wins, or maybe his 9-5er is at taco bell and it sounds better to say poker pro rather than head bean injector. If the title is valid I am a semi pro poker player, poker dealer, digital artist, maid, and babysitter. I think you could also call me a semi pro son and a semi pro gigiolo because I have been paid money for doing all of those activities. I guess the last two might be pushing it a bit. Dunno if you can count asking your dad to pay a poker buyin as professional earned
income. And it may be splitting hairs, but if I find a quarter from my wifes jeans on my butt during sex count as pay?? If so you can now call me "The Semi Pro Mexican/American Gigolo".

Keeping It Skinny,
FlacoJake

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Daddy, why is that man dragging that anchor into walmart??

Being thin has its pros and it has its cons. Let me tell you about yesterday!! I weigh 80lbs (36kilos). Yesterday the wind gusts hit I think 30-40 mph. Holy shiz boys and girls!

Walking into the store yesterday I must have looked like I had just jumped from a plane. I was outside the car jeans and shirt pressed against my body by the wind. I think if I had parachute pants on and a string attached to my belt you could probably fly me. Maybe I should carry bricks or rocks to add weight on these blustery days. It was quite comical trying to cut my small frame through the wind. It was tasking and a battle, but who's the man playa?? I made it inside and still had my hat on. However, It was even more hilarious coming out of the store. The rule of opposites what goes up must come down etc. How about against the wind equals forward movement impairment, going with the wind equals forward movement acceleration. I think it took me about 3 minutes to get into the store and about 3 seconds to get out. It was a great lesson for me to learn that an 80lb guy should always carry a 100lb anchor in his pocket for times like this one.

Keeping It Skinny,
FlacoJake

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Hey Dad, Can You Transform This??

Family day started today with mommys 2nd half of her Christmas present washer and dryer showing up about 11am. ...Hold on trsnsforming a transformer.... I think I am going to crawl into the dryer and see if I push enough buttons and turn enough dials if it will launch me into space.?
The day got a lot more hectic ...hold on transforming a transformer...as the departure time for a family birthday party seemed to jet from "oh, we got time" too "oh, shiz we gonna be late". We make it about 15 mins late, no biggy. Driving home was 30 mins of quiet time since Dallas fell asleep...hold on transforming a transformer...Quiet was short lived with the arrival of our two sleepover guests. It has only been 2 hrs and I have heard 10 high school musical songs and ...hold on transforming a transformer...I think 4 cheetah girls or hannah montana songs. Thanks to a certain old lady buying D&D their own karaoke machine, I was also enchanted by...hold on transforming a transformer...my daughters glorious singing voice.
It is now time to give each one a seditive, get me a shot of cuervo, take my cocaine laced insomia med sonata, and hit the hay. Just kiddingr, I just say all that to sound thug!....hold on I just BROKE a transformer while transforming a transformer...Till mañana

Keeping It Skinny,
FlacoJake

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Walgreens Paitience

I am waiting in line in the Walgreens drive through trying for the third time to pick up my insomnia medicine. Why am I even bothering?? It has been 20 minutes and one car just drove off. I am finally at the window.

20 mins in line, $5.60 in cash, good nights sleep priceless. Well I would not say priceless the cost of this medicine without insurance says $257.00 wow!! Maybe its got cocaine in it. Anyway, this post is not about Walgreens, governent funded healthcare, or cocaine laced insomnia meds. It is supposed to be about a good game at the PP House (Pettigrew Poker House). We had our first regular scheduled Friday night cash game last night. The .25/.50 cash game was ruthless to some and very lucrutive for others. I am happy to report that the game continued to be legal seeing how the house and house players did not make any money. The full table was a little late in getting started. No worries though I was up to $90 from $20 in the pregame. Funny though I did not leave with that much. The big winner last night was the attractive chica Miss Jennifer buying in for $20 and walking with $198. This is not to embarrass anyone but Dave Lewis was not running so hot this
night leaving stuck an undisclosed amount. Don't worry Dave you will get it all back I'm sure.
In summary the night was a success, we ended at another undisclosed number (wife protection). Play was fast and furious and the pot was ginormis!! Come and get your game on at our next game 1/18/08 @ 7pm.

Keeping It Skinny,
FlacoJake

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WELCOME TO MY JUNGLE

I want to try my hand at serial blogging. I am in constant battle with insomnia, so why not blog at 2:00am?? I can't promise correct spelling or proper grammer or puncuation. Any comments you have voice them. Any opinions on any subject voice them. I will be writing about many subjects. Of course there will be poker talk, but not every post will be about poker. So I welcome anyone and everyone to read and comment.

Keeping It Skinny,
FlacoJake