Well, I hate my job at Lowe's. So, I brought a chess board in last year and started a chess team at my store. There are only 4 -6 of us, but 3 (including myself) play everyday. I brought in two $5 boards for anyone to play on, but I also brought in a very and bit pricey all wooden board that only I play on that is kept in my locker. I was taught how to play chess by my Grandfather when I was around 12-13yrs old. I am 32 now and play ok. I am no GM or up and coming GM but I love to play. When I win a big game I still would love to tell my grandfather about it, but sadly he passed away in 2006, 4 months after my wedding. I miss him dearly because he taught me the value of chess and the importance of the game. To win graciously, and to accept defeat graciously. He was a very talented player and I am nowhere as good as he was. Other than that, I am here just to play and have fun. I rate myself as an average player. I can't beat too many high ranked players, but I still play just so I can learn more of my mistakes. I have only been playing serious chess for about a year. My score is climbing slow, but climbing higher than I expected.
My dream is to build my "man cave" (hate that term) and have all my tournament chess sets all up and set up in a nice dislplay. Includes 72" LCD TV for NHL season, pool table, cigar bar w/ wet bar attached, walk-in humidor, leather couch for TV, 2 long coffee tables to support 3 chess sets each w/ 6 comfortable leather seats for serious chess players..lol, and premium bose surround sound high def w/ 15 subwoofer for appropriate themed classical music by Bach when chess is in full vigor! To all serious contenders, I will send out my personal gram..CIAO!