The beginning of this month was great for poker and everything else. It still is, but had a few frustrating shots at nosebleeds. Was up about 125k within a few days but afterwards I took some shots at 100/200 and 200/400 (which I definitely do not regret). Frustrating to run bad at those limits. Set over set for 90k, QQ to JJ aipf for 90k, and flush allin turn vs AAs and river 4 to a flush, shipping away another 100k pot. All I can do is play my best and get the money in good vs my opponents range, and thats what I consider winning at poker.

The point of this isn't for me to complain, because I really don't believe complaining about bad beats is ever productive, and most often the opposite, quite destructive. The point of this is to illustrate that we all run bad at times of course, but it's how you handle running bad that really separates the weak and the strong in this game. I really didn't care at all when I lost those pots because thats the risk you take taking shots and being a poker player, but if your +ev and have an edge you really can't be upset about anything. Getting upset only lowers your winrate and makes you a worse player, its very simple.

Anyways, I am extremely motivated to finish this month strong (still having a good month and can't complain). I've already played about 20k hands and would really like to play another 20k or 30k hands before this month ends and book another solid winning month.

I'm thinking about buying a new car and would also like to start condo-shopping when I get home. I haven't spend any of my winnings and would really like to enjoy some of the money I've been making. Also, I kind of miss having a 'home base'. After traveling so much I never have really my own place because I am always changing apartments and moving.

Life has been good and I'm enjoying every minute of it. I'll certainly miss BA and my friends here when I'm back in the states. I'll make sure to post an update then!

-Ben