Okay, move 11. f4 is still in the database. I was basically just following standard opening lines. My first unassisted move was move 13.
But by then, before departing from the book opening, I already think I'm going to lose my pawn on e4 after Andrew plays b4. Apparently the masters are okay with this, but I was not intending to play a gambit.
So the next long series eventually leaves me a pawn down, which was what I was expecting anyway. I thought perhaps I could trap his queen, but that would have taken much too big of a blunder.
Does anyone have any suggestions or comments around move 13 about defending e4? Or if that is even necessary?
OK, so it's a little embarassing to post this one, because of how badly I blundered the ending, but it's a learning experience, right? This was a hard-fought game, but I guess I spaced at the end. I think there are some good moves in this game. Well done, Randy.