My life has always been punctuated by unforgettable poker games. Whether it's Pusoy Dos with my brother and my cousin, or double draw with complete strangers, I've had some pretty good hands and have always thought I played the game well. In fact, while in New Orleans a few years ago, I stopped and played poker with my fellow travelers.

Anyway, the last time I played No Limit Texas Holdem, I was cleaned out by a 14 year old who was lucky enough to hold a pair of eights and flop a full house. Of course, I had a three ladies, which you would normally go All In on, but that's all last Christmas.

This Christmas, I'm going to face this kid again, who has been --- wait for it --- playing online. No word on whether he's better now, but I think the older people get, the easier it is to read them (I'm wrong of course).

He has hell to pay this year. And, this year, we play with real money.