table conditions

I just thought I would take up a little slack with the holidays and all. I have been practicing at home for the last few months. The last time I was able to get away to a casino I was really struck by just how different the tables are these days. I know that for many of you this is a given. At home I play on a 12 foot table out of Binions in Las Vegas. It is a beautiful table and has a felt cover with a nice bounce. I love this table and practice on it every day. I have reached a point where I can beat it on a regular basis. I know it like the back of my hand. Now, when I go to a casino, I look for a table that plays just like mine. It's not easy to find. That being said, I was at a casino and started playing at a table and very quickly noticed that I felt right at home. The table I was playing at was using the same dice I practice with and the table was 12 foot and the bounce was similar enough. I had to calm myself down first and then I set about playing with a confidence that surprised me at first. I knew that I could win. Now I share this because as hard as this game is to beat, I know it is beatable. I have invested a lot of time. I have had excellent instruction (GTC crew, NFF, Billy, etc...) So, for six days I played this table, not like a crazy man, but with patience and proper betting. The conditions were perfect, for my throw. I did not have any monster rolls. I took the time to enjoy myself. I bled them slowly.
Trying to fight table conditions, large crowds, bad odds, etc.. makes this game even harder. I know how bad we all want to play (gamble) and I know how badly I want to win. It is an adjustment for all of us. Going from all the superstition and magical thinking to a point where it is math and mechanics is not an easy journey.
The message is a simple one. If your edge is small, be particular about the conditions you play under. If the dice are flying everywhere, there is no way that you are going to beat that table unless you can correct that action. I have trouble with some micro fiber but I also practice a lower trajectory at home. I may play more or less spin to see if that helps. If I see that I can not adjust then I check that table off my list.
I wish all of you good rolling in the New Year and may you and your family stay healthy and happy. Hope to see some of you in Vegas for the January class. I know I keep going back. I always learn something.

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