Just Typin'

These past few weeks in Dallas were fun.

But, they were also my last. If I go back, it will be for a day, or maybe a weekend. But other than that, it's done.

I still have a few connections to Dallas. There are a few people that live there, and these are people I'd visit with. But I'm talking about only a few people. Maybe a handful. Umm...how about 4? Possibly 3?

I mention this because I changed my phone number. I do not 'represent' the '214' anymore. And this is the first of many steps in determining where I live for the long-term. I'm fine with Austin. I could live here for quite a while. I'm starting to appreciate some of its better qualities.

I got back in time to play in the poker tournament. Didn't do so well. 4th out of 14. I played fairly well for the first 2 hours. But I ran into the one type of player that can screw over the best of professionals - the amateur. The person that calls any raise, just so they can see one more card. They want to play every hand, no matter what cards they have. I hate it. It's the first time I've left a competition with an empty feeling. Coming into it, I really wanted to play my best, win, and say to myself, "OK. Now I'm ready." I don't think I'm ready yet. If I go, there are going to be amateurs there. If I can't beat them, then what's the point? I just have to get better.

Either way, the night was still fun. The chic that hosts all of the poker nights is transferring. So, this past night was spent with drinks, stories, and what-not. Honestly, I only knew these people through these poker tournaments. However, I actually felt like they were real friends. They were very open with me, and everything just went smooth. It's because of this that I stayed even after I was eliminated. Besides, I always help out with the cleaning afterwards.

So after everything was locked up, we all stood around outside. Our hostess had some parting words, and things were kinda emotional for her. She gave peoples hugs and what-not. It was a bit awkward for me, because she really let loose on my shoulder. At the same time, I felt like I was doing what I'm best at. I provide comfort, no matter who. I'm always another person's shoulder.

They decided to go to a bar down the street. I really didn't want to go. I don't drink, and I don't like loud places. Besides, I didn't have my phone or anything. So I went home.

When I got home, everyone was already asleep. It was still before midnight. I don't sleep until 4 or 5AM. So, I changed clothes, grabbed my phone, and went to the bar.

I'm not very social. I get nervous very easily. And I tend to just sit in the background. So, this was a good step towards getting out, lookin' around, and feeling comfortable in new environments.

It was a small bar with a stage for karoake and stuff that I wouldn't do. Well, I would play pool, but I'm not that good. I saw the group right away. We sat around, talked a bit, and people danced. After an hour, it was time for peoples to leave, so I left as well.

Still felt empty though.