Chesscapades

Hello, Goodbye

2010-06-10T06:09:00.000-07:00

Readers,
I have neglected this blog, as you can see. For that, I am very sorry. I have been busy, busy, busy (and you know there's online chess mixed in with all that)! But too busy, I fear, for the maintenance of the blog. I am thus announcing my intention to take an indefinite hiatus from blogging. I love you all and hope we meet on the cyber boards of Chess.com. I may be back in the future; I can't say. Best of luck to you all with your chess endeavors! Friend me on chess.com if you haven't already!
~Torero

To block or not to block...

2010-05-19T08:24:00.000-07:00

That is the question I currently face.

Y'all, I spend so much dang time playing chess online that it's not funny. Don't get me wrong, I love it so much. But...I was thinking of blocking chess.com at home so I can only play it at the library. That way, I won't procrastinate on schoolwork and I can do more housework. I *know* I sound like a crazy right now, but it's just been on my mind!

:(

Morning!

2010-05-13T05:54:00.000-07:00

Good morning gentle readers,
I was watching Morning Joe as I got ready for work this morning, and they had a segment about the worst sports ever. Guess what! They featured Chess Boxing. Just saying...I told you first! LOL! I thought it was great! Zorbing (look it up) looks like fun!
Torero

Happy Belated Earth Day!

2010-05-06T07:19:00.000-07:00

Eco-chess!

Now this would convince me to get a dog...

2010-05-06T06:05:00.001-07:00

Original found here. Love it! :)

Yeah, yeah...you know I'm getting married...

2010-04-22T18:02:00.001-07:00

But what if it could be like this? Really not much more to say than that...

Got my own virtual doppelganger...

2010-04-21T22:01:00.000-07:00

Guess who I played chess with today?
? ? ? ? ? ?
Someone named TOREROU!! With a U! I'm guessing they didn't claim "Torero" in time cause I got there first! He was from Spain and greeted me by saying "Hola, Clon." Guess who won?

Chessstravaganza!!

2010-04-20T23:13:00.001-07:00

Hello darlings,
I have completed my courses for the semester and my work duties are currently on hiatus. Plus my fiancee's working a load of overtime this week. See where this equation's going? Lots of chess, all the time! See you on chess.com, maybe?
Torero
Ps. A link in honor of my (non-nerd) friends who had a baby!

Interesting...

2010-04-18T15:03:00.001-07:00

Oh yeah!

Yes, this will be my new hobby.

2010-04-13T19:27:00.000-07:00

Maybe this is what chess has been missing all along?

BIG NEWS!!

2010-04-01T12:02:00.000-07:00

Guess what, everybody!! I have been working so hard to build up my chess score and it's reached a new high of 1400!!! I wish. April Fool's...!

Oh my goodness!

2010-03-25T16:37:00.000-07:00

Readers, I hate to admit it, but Yahoo! Answers is like my fiancee's online counterpart to my chess playing habit...I am speechless when things like this:

appear on there...I guess it's good for a laugh at least! I love that Chess is the only "boring" "sport" listed...along with "all that other geeky stuff." I'm guessing the asker means MMORPG's, and I don't know, Risk? Delightful.

I must have this!

2010-03-23T20:29:00.000-07:00

Y'all, it's $5 (plus shipping, here), I'm just saying. How awesome is this!! What what!

Link you may enjoy

2010-03-23T18:24:00.001-07:00

Read it! A follow-up to the last post, sort of: here.

Because regular chess isn't complicated enough

2010-03-23T18:08:00.001-07:00

There's this! Which I might consider playing!

I've missed you!

2010-03-22T21:12:00.000-07:00

Y'all, get this. I was busy planning and working at a conference that occurred this past weekend that I've not had time to work on my chess lately! I took a LONG nap Sunday after the conference ended, then woke up and logged right in to chess.com. Alas, my prowess seems to be weakened...I'll play more but I tell you, one loss puts a bad taste in my mouth. :( Here's hoping things look up!

Why I play ONLINE chess

2010-03-15T06:04:00.000-07:00

It's my opinion that the Internet is the best thing to happen to chess, especially for amateur players. I, like many chess hobbyists, don't always have a partner to play with. So I really like that other, partner-less chess players (from around the world!) can meet together and play chess. With chess.com, I always have an opponent! Except when the server's down. Which it was earlier today, for maintenance or something.

Not even about chess this time, sorry...

2010-03-11T20:30:00.000-08:00

But hey, the posting material comes to me these days! Once you and your WoW girlfriend tie the knot and there's a little gamer on the way, what do you need? Click here to see! I found this on Regretsy, totally worth a read BTW. At least it's eco-friendly? LOL, ga ga.

In case your game-dating works out...

2010-03-10T14:46:00.000-08:00

Here's some helpful information about girls who play online games. Not the kind where they stalk you on Facebook, the good ones! Like Farmville (just kidding) and online chess!

PS. The comments are the best part!

Good iDea?

2010-03-09T18:49:00.000-08:00

OMG, have you visited chess.com lately and actually looked at the home page? I usually rush to log in (duh!) but the "mobile chess" box on the front piqued my interest. I currently use a hand-me-down Razr, with no data capabilities...but with a chess application, the iPhone is looking a lot better to me these days! I could play chess on the go! While on hold with customer service! OMG in the bathroom!

Bonus feature for the MMORPGers in the audience--Final Fantasy and Final Fantasy II are now available for the iPhone as well!

I've got the giggles!

2010-03-09T17:46:00.001-08:00

Y'all, check out this hilarity! Here's a gentleperson facing a jail sentence, and wants to know how to pass the time. Of course, one answer is chess, obviously! (And "become a chess master!--in 90 days?)But here's what gets me laughing: the sixth commenter offers a list concluding with "pen-and-paper RPGs"! Since the thread's from 2006, the sentence has probably concluded by now...I'd like to know how it went! But in conclusion, as much as I have been an ambivalent critic/lover of MMORPG's, maybe it's time I embraced old-timey RPG's! I'll let you know how it goes!

Spotted!

2010-03-08T11:45:00.000-08:00

Another chess sighting! Backstory is my fiancee watches reruns of Family Guy when I'm playing online chess. I happened to be watching with her the other day when I spotted a heated chess match between Stewie and Brian! Chess is everywhere, now why don't more people actually play?

I knew there was a reason...

2010-03-03T14:03:00.000-08:00

I like Vladimir Nabokov so much! First of all, he wrote my favorite book ever, the literary masterpiece Lolita, and now I have read that he was also a huge chess aficionado!

Tardy for the Party!

2010-03-02T22:24:00.000-08:00

Y'all, so sorry I'm late! It was a snow day today so I basically played online chess like all day and lost track of time. Anyway, congratulations to contestant jchess13 who will receive a bottle of liquid correction fluid, perfect for holding the place of errant pieces during a heated round of 3-D chess. And thanks to everyone for entering, I hope to sponsor another contest soon!

Random Chess Sighting, this time, online!

2010-03-01T20:39:00.000-08:00

I was looking at the different online chess sites tonight--don't get me wrong, I LOVE chess.com--just out of curiosity, when I saw that Nabisco (?) has a game section of their website, and one of the available games is chess! Pretty random, I thought! Well, I played a game, and let me tell you--the graphics are kind of awesome! It's a little more 3-D in style, so you feel more like you're at a chess board. You're playing with another person, but you can only chat with them using pre-selected messages like "oops!" "good job!" and "are you still there," among others. So I wouldn't say it's a great chess destination, I would say, if your work blocks chess.com, try the Nabisco version. Or if you want a chess game that matches, like, your Saltines and Ritz Crackers, go for it!

Last chance!

2010-03-01T17:06:00.000-08:00

Lady and Gentleman Readers,
Please note that your time is running out to enter the inaugural giveaway here at Chesscapades. One bottle of liquid correction fluid could be yours. And I've decided to throw in a bonus surprise addition as well. Entries will be accepted until March 2nd, let's say, 11 pm. EST so I have time to post the winner before the day is officially over. Good luck to all entrants!
~Torero

Lost your chessboard?

2010-02-25T18:56:00.000-08:00

Here's a creative replacement! LOL...I got the pic here. (I edited it slightly for content)I was wondering about a board to go along with the hardware store chess pieces...also, check the link for directions to playing strip chess if you're into that...this body-chess situation could actually work out--your board could be your opponent if she could see over her endowments. I doubt you'd want to use a man for this, due to the chest hair issue. You could use a sleeping person's back, if they're one of those people who sleep really soundly and still. And don't have their shirt on. But you would need three people, because I highly doubt the ability of a sleeping person to play chess!

Who knew there was more to dating and WoW?

2010-02-25T16:55:00.001-08:00

Apparently, there is...see? Right...anyway, this makes me wonder if ladies or gentlemen troll Chess.com for love interests among their opponents. I'm certainly not looking--and that's definitely not why I play chess. I'm there for the intellectual stimulation! I guess this is the online version of ladies who do their makeup before going to the gym in hopes of snagging a man? Hmm...

Inaugural Giveaway!

2010-02-23T21:04:00.000-08:00

Readers, I have decided to hold my first ever giveaway! I appreciate your loyal attention to my ramblings, and want to show my appreciation. But hurry while the goods are hot! One (1) winner will receive one (1) bottle of liquid correction fluid, good for holding the place of a chess piece that has gone missing (a tactic I learned from my fiancee's brother). To enter, send an email, with subject line "Inaugural Giveaway" to toreroplayschess@gmail.com, and put your name and mailing address as the contents. The giveaway is open for entries until March 2, when the winner will be randomly selected and announced on the blog! Good luck!

Loving the bookstore!

2010-02-18T12:26:00.000-08:00

Y'all, this might sound super-lame or whatevs, but I hang out a LOT in Barnes & Noble. I just love to browse, sip brain-boosting green tea from Starbucks, and soak up the general bookiness that pervades the atmosphere. Anyhoo, they have in-store events sometimes and one of the things I noticed is they hold a chess club on Thursdays! I would like to go, but I'm afraid I'd be, like, the only adult and everyone else would be 12 and I'd feel like a loser. Then again, maybe I could beat them all and build up my self-esteem! I'm thinking about it...not committing yet though!

Soooooooooo Sorry!!!

2010-02-17T16:35:00.001-08:00

I just thought this was so funny! (Albeit a little off-color, and I do regret that) Anyway, I'm sorry about my extended absence from the blog. It's nothing personal...I just think my computer has a virus or something, I need to take it to get fixed :( but enjoy this slice of hilarious I found earlier today! Love ya!

Happy Olympics Eve!

2010-02-11T12:41:00.000-08:00

Readers,
It is the eve of the 2010 Olympic Games! As excited as I am to watch, I feel like participating would be fun, too! I mean, I'm not heading up to Vancouver or anything, but you can have your own *intellectual* at-home version of the Olympics, by playing the games listed here. Of course, chess is on there...as is another couch-potato-cum-intellectual-athlete favorite, sudoku! (I confess to playing a small amount of sudoku...although my fiancee enjoys it much more) I haven't played any of the other games on this list, but you know, I'm inspired to try! Happy playing!
~Torero

Chess Preparation

2010-02-08T18:42:00.000-08:00

Readers,
This is the second (long overdue) installment in my series about how to succeed at chess. So, like, chess tips from me! Anyway, here is what I have to say. Everything is all interconnected and stuff, so your chess success is not solely based on the time you spend playing the game. I mean, practicing helps...but you can do things outside of playing that benefit your game. For example, you should probably drink some green tea, like two cups a day. And definitely take fish oil supplements. These two additions to your diet will enhance your mental fitness. Additionally, I recommend getting some exercise to get the blood circulating really well. Take care of your body and it will help your mind--ultimately enhancing your chess game! More wisdom to come...
~Torero

Brighten up your winter days!

2010-02-08T18:33:00.001-08:00

Hi there! The winter doldrums have been getting to me lately, and there's not much I can do about it. But I found something that might just keep me occupied long enough to distract me! How about making your own chess set from nuts and bolts (which cost, like 10¢ each)? Here is a link for you! You can even go with a color scheme of brights, like turquoise, lime, and tangerine--perfect summery colors to brighten your day! There aren't instructions, but I think you could figure it out. Here is a little help. The chess set pictured was created by Julia Suits, whose flickr photostream provided the image. You can read how she came up with the idea--a wonderful example of chess inspiration! Chess-spiration! :)

The Olympics are coming!

2010-02-08T14:48:00.000-08:00

This Friday, readers, the 2010 Olympics will officially begin! My awareness of this fact has been enhanced by the number and frequency of Olympics-themed TV commercials. I bring this up to draw your attention to the debate about whether chess should become part of the Olympics. I definitely think it should! Here is a link to a post from Alexandra Kosteniuk's blog in which she explains her position about the topic. Happy reading! :)

Update!

2010-02-04T21:58:00.000-08:00

I spoke in haste, reader. My score is now 1250! A great way to start the weekend!

Higher than ever!!!!

2010-02-04T21:44:00.000-08:00

You GUYS!!!! Guess what? My score is at a new all-time high and I am no longer reticent to reveal it to y'all! 1241, baby! That's MCCXLI in Roman Numerals, y'all. That's right, I've been on a T-E-A-R through the virtual chess boards of Chess.com! Here I go again...

Tip-off to fun new blog reads!

2010-02-04T21:24:00.000-08:00

During my virtual perambulations, I wandered across some fascinating blogs, "My Chess Pieces Blog," "hardcore pawnography," and "Lousy@Chess," and they're each worth a read! I thought I'd share with all y'all!
~Torero
P.S. I might start going by "Tor" for short.

MMORPGs & Dating (and online chess, of course!)

2010-02-04T20:37:00.000-08:00

Readers,
You must go view this article! It's dating advice...from WoW players! Now, this is more MMORPG-oriented than chess-oriented...but I think some portions of the article are definitely apropos to my experience with online chess.

For example...

What has World of Warcraft taught you about dating?
A few polite words can go a long way. Also, people who spend a lot of time in front of the computer tend to have excellent imaginations — the brain is our most powerful sexual organ.

Titillating, I'm sure you agree! And I certainly acknowledge that online chess, too, is quite mentally stimulating--you'll have to ask my fiancee whether it has enhanced my appeal--also of note from the article is that the gamers interviewed suggested a little healthy [WoW] competition is beneficial for a relationship. Assuredly, chess competition would be beneficial as well! My case to convert my fiancee to a chess player is growing ever-stronger. If you already own a chess set, it's cheaper than couples therapy! Not that we need it, you know. But it certainly couldn't hurt!
Game on!
Torero

CHANGES

2010-02-04T18:08:00.000-08:00

Readers,
I have tired of the incessant red-and-black look of the blog and have resultingly made some changes more to my taste. Also, I updated the font to give the blog a more computer chess theme.
<3,
Torero

CHECK THIS OUT!

2010-02-04T17:53:00.000-08:00

This infographic (which I originally found on Geekologie.com, but apparently originated from Focus.com) offers a rich analysis of the state of the Internet today. (You can click the picture slightly to enlarge, and the link to see it full-sized) The information contained within is a valuable data set, if you ask me, and it has special relevance to my role as a blogger, a member of the blogosphere, as it were...I count myself among the 7% of bloggers ages 18-24, and as for my style, I would say the two adjectives(from their choices)that best describe me are "confessional" and "honest." Feel free to disagree, I guess...but I certainly wouldn't count myself as "journalistic," "expert," "snarky," or "humorous." Well, maybe a little of the last. I hope.

BY THE BY...

2010-02-04T17:47:00.000-08:00

My chess.com score reached an all-time high the other day! I don't particularly care to say what it was (you can find out if you are on chess.com) but it was totally respectable, not deficient or anything. I just thought you should know.

SURNAMES

2010-02-04T12:20:00.000-08:00

Hello Readers,
Suffice it to say, my surname is not related to chess or anything. In fact, this post has nothing to do with chess. But you know Benicio del Toro, right? What a totally awesome surname! I think I could adopt it to add some cachet to my chess pseudonym. My chesseudonym. Ha ha ha! Because I'm "Torero," get it? LOLZ!
Love ya,
Torero (del Toro)

UPDATE!

2010-02-02T16:14:00.000-08:00

Turns out, Torera is a word! And it means what I thought it did, a female matador. So unless it's been claimed, it's up for the taking (*looking at future wife knowingly*)!! Yeah...

FUN FACT!

2010-02-01T13:53:00.000-08:00

Did you know..."Chesscapades" was my fiancee's idea? What a great idea! Of course, playing chess online all the time was my idea...but the blog was a stroke of genius on her part. Now maybe I'll convince her to take up the playing of the online chess. She could call herself Torera. If that's a word. Is that a word? IDK.

WHAT TIME IS IT?

2010-01-26T19:40:00.000-08:00

It's time for chess!!! Buy it here.

I NEED THIS!!!!!!

2010-01-26T19:28:00.000-08:00

OH MY GOSH YOU GUYS!!! I got (by proxy) a Wii for Christmas (I love it!) and have been bowling and playing baseball ad nauseum!! I mean, I spend WAY less time on the Wii compared to online chess, but you know, sometimes I have to pay attention to my fiancee, who for *some* reason doesn't like to sit quietly and observe my chess genius. Anyhoo, this would be great! I could bring it with me and play with my future brother-in-law, who also enjoys both playing chess and playing Wii!!! :)
PS. My birthday's coming up...

SUMMER VACATION!

2010-01-26T19:15:00.002-08:00

Readers,
If I could, I would go here: Castle Chess Camp. It's a week-long chess camp at Emory!! Wow! The only thing I need to do is get an official UCSF rating, have the time, and the $$ ($800 for a resident--who wouldn't want a chess-fanatic roomie experience??). Seriously, I want to do this! I hope my summer plans can accommodate the experience!!! *Keeping my fingers crossed*
<3,
Torero

IN CASE YOU WERE WONDERING...

2010-01-26T19:15:00.001-08:00

The breakup has stuck! I have sworn the old table off and my new one has been great! I should have done it sooner--I'm sure my chess score would be much higher by now!

IT'S BEEN AWHILE

2010-01-26T19:08:00.000-08:00

I KNOW!! I wanted to post sooner, trust me. But I have a job this semester--the real world can keep you incredibly busy! Anyway, I'm playing chess RIGHT NOW! And it's going great! You know, I really like playing as white, but the game in which I am currently embroiled is one in which I am playing as black. And it seems to be going well. I continuously have to remind myself to make wise choices and be conscious about my moves. I wonder if chewing gum while playing would help with that? Or, like, playing Mozart in the background?

SO NOT COOL!!

2010-01-14T18:42:00.001-08:00

As you may be aware, I do much of my online chess playing in the library. I usually sit at one of two tables. Well, unfortunately for me, the computers on the tables I sit at are constantly kicking me off for no reason! But I keep coming back to them. I seriously forget about the problems in the past and keep choosing the same tables...just to be disappointed again! Well, this JUST happened to me in the middle of a REALLY good match that I was winning!! I am SO mad! So, I'm breaking up with those two tables. I have moved on, and here's hoping my new spot treats me better! Good riddance!

OH NO!!

2010-01-13T19:59:00.000-08:00

Readers,
I spotted a reference to chess--not just regular chess, but online--in an article about a serial identity thief! Read the excerpt below:
"She stopped showing up at her job as a nursing assistant, spending most of her time playing chess online, escaping into a world that felt orderly, sensible, within her control."
The quote above describes Esther Reed, the "Girl Who Conned the Ivy League," a fascinating, disturbing article. I thought you might be interested--chess itself plays a minor role throughout the story.
Torero

SO LONG!!

2010-01-13T18:40:00.000-08:00

I have decided to quit Tweeting, and have deleted my Twitter account. It was fun while it lasted, but ultimately, I need to focus on my chess game.

I'M STILL HERE!

2010-01-13T11:52:00.000-08:00

I have been so busy, with a new job this semester, and two classes. But don't worry, I still have time for chess! In fact, I've been doing quite well recently. I reached an all-time high this month, before fluctuating back down. I have been trying to play people with higher scores, to improve--and to learn something about playing. I recommend trying a game with someone much higher-ranked than oneself--you'll be surprised at how well you can do if you put your mind to it!

A NEW YEAR, AND A CONFESSION...

2010-01-06T13:26:00.000-08:00

I feel a little guilty saying this, but I have to get it off my chest! You by now know about my devotion to chess...but I haven't been forthcoming with my other recreation obsession, MMORPG's. It's like, I totally loved EQ for the longest time...and a good friend (questionable in influence...) has been seriously nagging me to start up with WoW. It's like, I'd love to do it, you know? But as much as I love MMORPG's, I just can't help comparing them to chess. One builds your mind and strengthens your logic. The other...yeah... I don't know. I mean, chess is time-honored and the game of kings. I just feel like my brain cells might suffer. I mean no offense to anyone by this post, but this comparison has been weighing on my mind lately. I think 2010 will be the year of chess for me, and chess might be surpassing MMORPG's in my esteem.

Resolutions!

2009-12-28T21:46:00.001-08:00

Hi Blog Readers,
I just want to draw your attention to the new year which is soon to dawn on us. 2010 is coming, and I have prepared a resolution for myself...have you thought about yours yet? Mine is to quit playing chess if my game's not its best. This resolution will cut down on my endless playing until I reach victory, if it's been a day of losses...and will stop me from playing (even if I'm winning) if I'm not performing my best, mentally. So, in addition to any financial/weight loss/etc. resolutions you make this year, I urge you to make a chess resolution as well! Happy New Year!
~Torero

Merry Chessmas!

2009-12-20T09:10:00.000-08:00

Hey readers! I was perusing Alexandra Kosteniuk, the Chess Queen's, blog, ChessBlog.com, when I ran into this adorable cartoon she wrote for Christmas! And since she volunteered it for free distribution...I am reposting it here for your enjoyment! (Click the image to see a larger view)

Dear Santa...

2009-12-17T06:19:00.000-08:00

Ohmygosh, Ohmygosh! You guys are not going to believe this!!! I was looking through etsy.com's selection of chess-related merchandise when I found the perfect Christmas gift for myself!! They had loads of fun chess apparel--including ties and vests! but while those are very nice, they seem more appropriate for a real-life chess event. Since my chess life exists primarily online, there was one object that appealed to me in particular--chess PJ pants!

The seller, The Summer Palace, also sells a matching fleece chess hat! I might just have to play my own Santa this year...but I guarantee, the chess pants/hat combo will go great with my new (keeping my fingers crossed) Snuggie!! :P

Groovy!

2009-12-16T08:47:00.001-08:00

Hey readers! I was flipping through the channels the other day...wow, I sound like I watch a lot of TV. I swear, I play online chess, like, 10 times more than I watch TV. Anyway, I caught a portion of Austin Powers 2 on TBS (The worst A.P. movie, srsly!) and ran across this scene featuring Ivana Humpalot (Austin's Russian love interest...)and Austin himself:

Ivana: Do you know how we keep warm in Russia?
Austin: I can guess, baby.
Ivana: We play chess.
Austin: I guessed wrong.

AAAND then, they played chess!!! Briefly...but if anybody can make chess sexy, it's Austin Powers...I'll stop while I'm ahead! ;)

Kitty-Cat Chess Buddy

2009-12-14T09:28:00.000-08:00

I thought I'd brighten you folks' days with a picture of me and my cat Percy playing chess (this is before I had Internet on my new computer so I was playing the machine!)...anyhoo, there you go. My cat loves chess as much as I do! :)

Spotted!

2009-12-14T08:11:00.000-08:00

...chess! Again! I was chillaxing over the weekend, and I tuned in to Saturday Night Live (one of the better shows of the season, IMHO) when I saw it! Chess...in the opening credits! Can you find it?

I'm BACK....and better than ever!

2009-12-12T12:26:00.000-08:00

I apologize for the extended absence. Most of it was due to school-related obligations...although I must admit I've been chessing it up quite a bit, with great results! Now, I've added a picture of myself and an opponent (my future brother-in-law) playing chess over Thanksgiving! We're playing on my Lord of the Rings chess set...can you guess which one's me?

In other news, I've finished my Christmas shopping already but I'm sorry to admit that I did not purchase a single chess-related item! I sure hope I receive some chess swag this year, however! We've got a little less than 2 weeks until the holiday. Maybe I'll get some good play in with different relatives this year? I have yet to teach my mom how to play! Perhaps I'll endeavor to do so this year!

A Rhyming Haiku

2009-12-04T15:43:00.000-08:00

Readers,
If you know anything about me, then you know that I HATE playing the computer in chess. I would much rather play a fellow human. However, there are times in all of our lives when we are left without an Internet connection. If we are lucky, we have a chess program on our computers. If not, we end up playing Minesweeper...anyway, I guess I'm one of the lucky ones because when I can't access chess.com, I can fall back on my computer's chess program, even though I'm playing a computer. Without further ado, I present a rhyming computer chess haiku that I wrote myself:

Move pawn first or not?
Victory requires thought.
Must conquer chess bot!

Enjoy!
~Torero

Good News for Sweet Teeth!

2009-12-02T19:12:00.001-08:00

If you are a sweet tooth, then you will LOVE this fun tidbit I read (can't remember where...can't find it! I really saw this though...): your brain burns calories through mental exertion! Wow and yay! However, it only burns calories of sugar and not fat, so during the holidays, you can burn off those extra candy canes by playing a few grueling rounds of chess...the gravy, you will have to run off :(. I'm not much of a sweet tooth myself, but I sure have a chess...something. Whatever body part that would be...hand, I guess! Maybe I can entice some opponents to play a few rounds with me using this information!

Spotted!

2009-11-30T17:12:00.000-08:00

Chess! I was flipping through the channels over Thanksgiving weekend (Happy Thanksgiving, by the way!) when I caught a glimpse of a reality show about prison inmates...and they were playing chess for entertainment! That's just inspiring! I think chess can definitely sharpen the mind--it's a great exercise in which people from all walks of life can participate! Maybe more prisons and jails need chess!

Advice

2009-11-21T17:26:00.000-08:00

Dear Readers:

A little while ago, I read a very useful article that can be found here.

The key idea in the article, I believe, is that the best way to get better in chess, in the final analysis, is to go play; as opposed to reading books, studying all the time, etc. which the article makes clear is all very important, but which is all rather superimposed and secondary compared with playing.

The gist of what I took from the piece and a couple of the comments posted by users is that everyone can beat anyone else in any game. I found this to be the case. Okay, it is really easy to get it in your mind that hey, I’m going to lose this game—especially if you’re in a slump. So, just go to each chess game with a clear and fresh mind. Say, hey, I’ve got as good a chance of victory as the person on the other side of the board.

In the final analysis (to use this useful term twice), all one can do is go out and give each new chessing opportunity their best shot. What does it really matter who you’re playing?

~Torero

Must-see?

2009-11-18T18:54:00.000-08:00

Readers, I have been alerted thanks to Uncle Wikipedia, of the existence of a musical called "Chess." There doesn't seem to be a audiovisual recorded version of this musical, which in my opinion is a travesty--somewhere beneath chess on my list of interests is theatre! Not musical theatre, especially...but who cares, this sounds like a winner to me. Oh man, a revival would be great...it was developed with ABBA members' collaboration, so this could be a success along the line of Mamma Mia! They should do it! Or hopefully a theatre in my area will stage a production of this masterpiece...I'm definitely keeping my fingers crossed*.

*Left hand fingers only...the right hand's too busy on the mouse busting some awesome chess moves up in here!! ;)

Look both ways.

2009-11-17T19:06:00.000-08:00

Readers, I'm back! And I'm here with another chess tip! I know we all get excited about playing chess--our next move! the possibility of a win! But let me remind you that you must SLOW DOWN. I'm talking quality over quantity here...you could make your next move in record time, but DO NOT! I'm sure you are familiar with the carpentry saying, "measure twice, cut once." Well...go over possibilities for your next move before making it, as you can't take back a hasty move that ends up being a bad decision. We all know a single move can make or break a game--don't let yourself get in a hurry only to end up losing. I mean, you COULD...but I've learned not to, and it has helped my game tremendously!
~Torero

Tidbits

2009-11-12T21:07:00.001-08:00

Here are a few fun tidbits I found while perusing chess.com:

· There are 318, 979, 564, 000 possible ways to play the first four moves of a chess game on each side of the board.

· In 1891, a group in Dublin, Ireland formed the “Club of Living Chess,” where live players were used as the pieces. The group performed for charity events.

· The shortest chess game recorded lasted for only one move. It was played between Rogoff and Huber in 1972.

Many thanks to "jojo" who originally submitted an extended version of the list in 2007.

Meow

2009-11-10T21:58:00.000-08:00

You know how I was talking about cats in an earlier post...it's because I have two of the little scamps. Random thought of the day: name a cat Chess-ter? Queenie? Would that not be *the* *cutest* *thing* *evar*!! Personally, I think I'd go with Checkmate, so I could talk like a pirate and call it "matey" and say "arghh" or nickname it "checker." Whatever!

Post by Request

2009-11-10T14:54:00.001-08:00

Readers,
This is a special post, dedicated to a special reader, who requested two specific posts from me, so here is one of them. Here is the request I received: "I would like to see some discussion of chess strategies and ways to size up your opponent's mental hardiness." A fascinating request, I'm sure you will agree. Well, I must say that first of all, one of the best chess strategies is distraction. When playing chess IRL, you can use all sorts of methods to achieve distraction. I like to point at a spot behind my opponent and cry alarmingly, "look at that!" This is, incidentally, a great way to size up your opponent's mental hardiness--surely, they won't be stupid enough to look? But I am a good actor...Now, in online chess, the great way to distract your opponent is to use the chat function. You can try to psych them out by bullying: "you suck!" or behaving like an automaton: "good luck!" (this is what the computer tells you if you are playing it). You can add "you're going to need it" to the end of the "good luck!" comment to combine strategies. Discussing complicated intellectual matters while playing is a good way to distract and size up your opponent, although this is understandably harder online. Of course, I have myriad strategies, and most of them I will be happy to share. In the future. Let's make this a series. I will be back soon with another installment.
Love ya,
Torero

Friendly Reminder

2009-11-09T18:44:00.001-08:00

Chesscapades is on Twitter! Follow me @chesscapades on Twitter! See you there.

The best ideas...

2009-11-09T18:35:00.000-08:00

Come at such odd times! I mean, I was just standing outside, leisurely peeing in the crisp autumn air as the breeze...well, never mind, but a fabulous idea struck! I love chess! Why not sign up for a chess.com platinum membership! Check this out: http://www.chess.com/membership.html
I feel great now that I can support chess.com! So for you serious online chess players out there, consider one of the subscription membership levels--you *can* play for free...but with benefits and the knowledge that you're supporting a thriving chess community...well, it's just fabulous!!
XO,
Torero

I mean this in the nicest way possible...

2009-11-05T13:45:00.000-08:00

If you don't play chess, then YOU DO NOT KNOW! You do NOT know!! So there.

If you do play chess, then you're cool and it's all good! Let's play...

I haven't forgotten you, reader

2009-11-02T18:56:00.001-08:00

Dear Reader,
I haven't forgotten. I have been playing chess, trending ever upward. Please forgive my absence from cyberspace lately. I will return at the earliest possibility, hopefully with good chess news to report. Don't be mad. ;)
Love ya,
Torero

Quick Update

2009-10-29T18:56:00.000-07:00

Dear Readers,
I have been on a roll tonight! I'm not sure whether it's my beret, my yellow jacket, my rolled-up jeans, or my multi-colored socks, but I must be wearing some article of clothing that is acting as a sort of chess talisman. Perhaps I have a new uniform? Although nothing beats playing chess in one's jammies from the comfort of one's own home. Well, it could just be in the air tonight...but I've been patting myself on the back for many chess games well-played. I hope I didn't just jinx myself!
Love ya,
Torero

Na Na Na Na Na Na Na Na Chess Man!

2009-10-29T12:13:00.000-07:00

Well, I was going to put something in the title about cats, but it sounds way cooler to put chess. I mean, this is a chess blog. But the reason I bring up cats is that I'd like to find a way to teach a cat to play chess. Maybe I'm talking out of my head here, but sometimes I get a hankering for a good 3-dimensional chess game and I need an opponent. I could play against myself but that seems a little odd. I'll give it a try and report back. I was just kidding about the cats, by the way. Everyone knows only dogs can learn complicated logical thinking processes. Just kidding. Monkeys. Or dolphins. No, definitely monkeys. Then I could make them wear funny hats. Or distract them with bananas.

Good News!

2009-10-29T12:08:00.000-07:00

Attention, loyal blog reader! I have, by request, enabled anonymous comments on all posts. Please be mindful that this should not be considered free rein to unleash malice. Not that you would. But you could. ;) I hope you're all doing well out there in blogland, and I apologize for the light posting lately. I've been playing intermittently with mixed results. Sometimes, however, homework and other duties take precedence over online chess. But small consolation, I've added a fun footer to the blog, so scroll away and let me know what you think. But only if it's good. :) Feel free to post chess tips, if you've got good ones! XO, Torero

Life-Size!

2009-10-27T19:17:00.000-07:00

If I ever have enough money to buy a mansion, I think I will forego the tennis court and swimming pool and put in a life-size chess board. I've never had the privilege of playing on a life-size chess board, but I imagine it would be pretty awesome!

Chess and Weddings...or just chess?

2009-10-26T19:23:00.001-07:00

I am lucky enough to say, that despite my voracious appetite for online chess, I have managed to hang onto my dear, sweet fiancee, who is very beautiful. Unfortunately, she won't stop talking about weddings! And she does it even when I'm trying to play! With headphones on! Women! Anyway, one of the only ways I think the wedding could become an accurate reflection of our lives is if it incorporated my love of online chess. My two loves, in one spot. Can I bring my laptop to the wedding? Honeymoon? You could really chess up a wedding, you know. Look at this awesome invitation from Wedding Paper Divas--I think I might try to persuade old A. to agree to a chess-themed event. I mean, what's not to love? Wow, enough wedding blabber...I'm headed to the old chess website, chess.com!

Reality

2009-10-22T11:47:00.000-07:00

You know, what with all the reality shows out there, I'm just waiting to see how long it takes to make a chess reality show. Have they already made one? I don't watch a lot of TV, but I think I would have heard of it. I'm not sure it would appeal to everyone...but I'd sure be watching, to see what I can learn. Well, that's my random thought of the day!

Concentration

2009-10-21T20:24:00.000-07:00

Well, anyone who's played chess can agree, the game requires a lot of concentration! Focus is the name of the game. Now, it might seem silly...but I think we all have ways of helping ourselves focus. We might not be aware of them. You know people who jiggle their legs while studying or chew gum while working...well, here's my quirky chess concentration thing: I hold my forearm in front of my nose while I play and stick the teeny-tiny hairs in my nostrils. I don't even know I'm doing it half the time! And I do it while driving, too. (Don't worry, one of my hands is on the wheel--and my arm hairs aren't so deeply entrenched within my nose that they can't be called upon to seize the steering wheel when necessary). It might appear crazy to onlookers, but guess what? It helps me focus. And in chess, players need all the edge focus provides. =:{) (this is an emoticon trying to depict a smiley putting his or her arm hairs in his or her nose). =:{)

Turndown

2009-10-21T10:37:00.001-07:00

Well, it sure puts me in a good mood to sleep when I can turn in with a fresh victory. I think I'd keep myself up all night playing just to end on a good note. :)

Pawnz

2009-10-20T12:05:00.000-07:00

Every pawn is a potential Queen.

- Mason

A Passed Pawn increases in strength as the number of pieces on the board diminishes.
- Capablanca
_________________________________________________________________

Well, guess what? Pawns have been inspiring me recently. I think many chess players consider pawns expendable and don't give them much thought. The lowly pawn is a valuable piece in chess, but it is underappreciated. The pawn is the first line of tiny wooden/plastic/virtual chess pieces to go into metaphorical battle, and often the first piece sacrificed. But one little pawn advancing across the board can, with reference to the quotes I added above, redeem a lost piece of higher worth if it completes its journey. Pawns may be tiny and adorable, but they are stronger than we give them credit for. My playing has improved in light of my newfound veneration for the meek and humble pawn. Well, the pawn may be the "weakest and most abundant" chess piece (thanks, Wikipedia!) and his name may be derived from the word "peon," but skilled chess players understand that the pawn's movements can determine the game's trajectory from the very first move! Perhaps you are playing on a chess board in which some of the pawns have been lost, like a certain someone I know who uses correction fluid bottles in place of a few pawns who've gone astray somewhere and at some time unknown. Well, regardless of what you're using to play your chess, please, for the sake of your game, be mindful of the pawn.

Photographic Inspiration

2009-10-17T11:17:00.000-07:00

Such an inspiring image of all the chess pieces lined up ready to play. I particu- larly enjoy the beginning of every game, because it has potential to become what you make it. Hmm, perhaps chess is rather postmodern in that sense? And for a game with such old roots, it still has relevance today. In fact, it's my opinion that more people should play chess, as it's such a great mental workout.

On a winning streak!

2009-10-15T14:53:00.001-07:00

Well, I have been on a winning streak lately (save a particularly distasteful loss last night). My score is up and I've been doing well! Here's hoping this trend continues!

Follow me...

2009-10-14T15:59:00.000-07:00

Chesscapades is now on Twitter! Follow me @chesscapades
~Torero

Cogs and Machines

2009-10-14T15:49:00.000-07:00

Okay, we're cogs in the great machine of life, but we're still humans. And that brings me to something I've been thinking about lately. I really can't stand playing computer chess against the computer. There's got to be a person on the other side of the screen somewhere for me to really feel challenged. I'm sure everyone's got their own opinions and preferences on this matter, but it feels so much better to engage in a chess game with a person instead of a machine. Hmm...perhaps it is just reassuring that there are other people out there who enjoy online chess as much as I do?

Nothing like it!

2009-10-13T06:04:00.001-07:00

I just wanted to add a quick post before I get going for the day. My online chess day has already started! There is really nothing like a morning online chess victory to get me going! It really lifts the spirits!! I WON!

This is your brain...on chess

2009-10-12T12:15:00.000-07:00

Chess is just one facet of my multi-faceted plan to head off Alzheimer's or another similar disease in the future. The blimits of my plan haven't been fully worked out yet, but suffice it so say that playing chess keeps one's brain young. I also take fish oil supplements every morning, and try to eat as much brain food as possible, including blueberries, fish, and a variety of vegetables. It's important to stay healthy mentally, and chess is definitely a great way to enjoy yourself while doing it! So, grab a bowl of blueberries topped with ground flax, and roll up your computer chair, and play a round of online chess. Your brain will thank you later!

On a roll

2009-10-08T18:33:00.000-07:00

I often find that the first game of my online chess day is a harbinger of the trend of the day. If I lose, then I'm probably going to keep losing. If I win, well, I am on a roll, baby! Ain't nothin gonna stop this train to victory! Hey, I might not be able to take a shower or make it to class on time, but woo, am I doing good! The only problem is that sometimes, I keep playing after I lose once, and my score plummets. :( You'd think I would have learned by now...and I do want to keep my score at the top...but sometimes I just can't tear myself away from the keyboard and monitor (with CPU, of course!) regardless of how many times I lose. Am I just trying to prove I can win if I keep playing long enough? Probably. Well, there's a peek into the inner thoughts of your neighborhood online chess aficionado. TTFN, y'all!

Welcome to my blog

2009-10-07T14:07:00.000-07:00

Hi,
I'm Torero, a 20-something online chess player. I do play 3-d chess from time to time, but the extra dimensions throw me off! I'm on my way to Chessmaster, I hope, so check on in from time to time to see how it's going. And maybe I'll even play chess online with you one day?
~Torero

Chesscapades

Hello, Goodbye

To block or not to block...

Morning!

Happy Belated Earth Day!

Now this would convince me to get a dog...

Yeah, yeah...you know I'm getting married...

Got my own virtual doppelganger...

Chessstravaganza!!

Interesting...

Yes, this will be my new hobby.

BIG NEWS!!

Oh my goodness!

I must have this!

Link you may enjoy

Because regular chess isn't complicated enough

I've missed you!

Why I play ONLINE chess

Not even about chess this time, sorry...

In case your game-dating works out...

Good iDea?

I've got the giggles!

Spotted!

I knew there was a reason...

Tardy for the Party!

Random Chess Sighting, this time, online!

Last chance!

Lost your chessboard?

Who knew there was more to dating and WoW?

Inaugural Giveaway!

Loving the bookstore!

Soooooooooo Sorry!!!

Happy Olympics Eve!

Chess Preparation

Brighten up your winter days!

The Olympics are coming!

Update!

Higher than ever!!!!

Tip-off to fun new blog reads!

MMORPGs & Dating (and online chess, of course!)

CHANGES

CHECK *THIS* OUT!

BY THE BY...

SURNAMES

UPDATE!

FUN FACT!

WHAT TIME IS IT?

I NEED THIS!!!!!!

SUMMER VACATION!

IN CASE YOU WERE WONDERING...

IT'S BEEN AWHILE

*SO* NOT COOL!!

OH NO!!

SO LONG!!

I'M STILL HERE!

A NEW YEAR, AND A CONFESSION...

Resolutions!

Merry Chessmas!

Dear Santa...

Groovy!

Kitty-Cat Chess Buddy

Spotted!

I'm BACK....and better than ever!

A Rhyming Haiku

Good News for Sweet Teeth!

Spotted!

Advice

Must-see?

Look both ways.

Tidbits

Meow

Post by Request

Friendly Reminder

The best ideas...

I mean this in the nicest way possible...

I haven't forgotten you, reader

Quick Update

Na Na Na Na Na Na Na Na Chess Man!

Good News!

Life-Size!

CHECK THIS OUT!

SO NOT COOL!!