5 more weeks till the Worlds

Wow, I'm kind of getting excited. I haven't been to the World Championships in a few years. Several reasons. I had a tough schedule, financially, the prize money is weak, the long trip is hard on my body and most importantly, I felt unprepared to win. This time is different. I've been practicing more than ever. I have to really sacrifice time with friends and family, shopping, and alot of the charity work that I normally used to say Yes to. I still do plenty, but not as much as before. Now, I just go to the gym, work in the office for a few hours and then go practice. Normally, I would spend half the day with my daughter, now I put her in full time day care. Of course she still takes trips with me when I'm gone for more than a day or two, but still I wish I could be with her more. I made a decision to commit to getting my game stronger than ever and I have to back that up. So, what am I doing? Mostly stroke drills. Playing by myself, working on smoothing out my stroke and timing. There are certain shots I isolate to build my confidence in specific areas. Of course, off the table, I'm getting really disciplined about working out everyday and making my back stronger. I hope I see you out there and you say HI. I feel your support out there. Thanks for reading.

Training like Crazy

I've really happy. I started making this effort to really get my game back in top form which it hasn't been in years. My priority has been being a good wife and mother, and of course, making a living and promoting pool. All the while, I have been sadder and sadder, going to each tournament unprepared. Of course, I still do well in events, but I always wonder, what if.....what if I gave these girls my real game. What if I trained like I'm supposed to? Well, time goes on and years are passing and it's time I want another baby. And I tell myself, if I have another baby, I really have no shot to be number one. It takes so much dedication to be the worlds greatest against the caliber of players we have today. And the way I am, I'll spend all my time with my babies. So, before I have another, i have to look at myself and wonder, do I really want this number one spot. Do I dare to go for it and risk failing, sacrifice the time with my family and friends and the income I would make where I would now be practicing more?
And with the support of my husband, it's a resounding YES! I just really really do love this game and I know I can play better. Well, it's been hard work. Doing drills like the old days, working on my stroke, getting all the little imperfections out. I'm going to the gym every morning, stretching, cardio, strength training, machines, free weights, eating right, and stretching again. I come home, go right to the pool room. I play 45 minutes, take a break for 15-20 minutes, play 45 minutes, take a break. I have to take breaks because my back and joints are just awful, and lately, my sciatic nerve is really hurting. I have to rest alot. During my 15 minute breaks, I run to the office and work on the computer, answering emails, looking at images, design things, approve things,etc. During my one hour break, I lay down. I'm still so excited. I love pool, and I love that I'm going for it. Stay fit, eat right, think positively and forward. I love you all out there!