Gradual Progress

As an adult beginner, I don't have any illusions about my capacity for chess.  I didn't build skill sets young and I don't have innate ability.  

I really like studying theory and lessons, but what I really learn from is getting beat up by my own mistakes, usually many times before I see the solid response.  While I imagine this is true of many chess players, I don't have a lot of people to talk chess with.  The ones I do have, I really appreciate because they are definitely better than I am.

I have spent some time looking at different openings, but not really with the intent of playing them, but rather so I can have a little bit of an idea what is coming at me when others play them.  I am trying to really dig into E4 openings, focusing on the Italian game and having solid development.

Blunders and mistakes still seem to be the currency of the day, but in those games when I can see clearly, see it coming and respond solidly, I feel strong.

I continue to enjoy this game, but time, care and effort all need to work together to keep me on track.