Here are a few hands from the afternoon session. I know I probably should have raise the last hand preflop, but other than that I think I played it well after the flop. The 1st hand however, should I have let it go?
Hand #40
-[As][Kc] on the Button. 3 limpers ahead and I raise. The BB and all 3 limpers call. 5 to the flop.
Flop: [2h][Js]
BB and 1st limper check. 2nd limper bets, called by 3rd, I raise. I still have a strong hand, maybe not the best, but the BB is my most dangerous opponent. The flop bettor and caller have been basically calling and not very aggressive after the flop yet. If I can catch an A or K on the turn they will pay me. SSHE says to protect your hand in this situation (I think) and not fear a check-raise. That goes right out the window as BB check-raises to 3 bets. 2 calls in front of me. I know I'm behind, either 2 pair or a set, but since he is aggressive I would think he would reraise 88 or JJ before the flop, so most likely 2 pair, but there is now over $40 in the pot and I have to call for 1 more small bet to see the turn.
Turn:
BB bets and it is called by both limpers. Now I have only a bad straight draw, but I can't give it up because the pot is now $57, more than enough for my draw.
River:
I know this Ace is no good, but w/ the a $66 pot I have to call. BB shows [8h].
Result: -$18 Is there any way I can get away from this hand?
HAND #88
-[Ah][Qh] in MP. Person to my left raises (no read), I re-raise and knock out the blinds.
Flop: [6c][Jc]
Raiser bets and I raise. I have nothing here, but by betting I can represent Aces or Kings, plus I have 2 overcards here. I think at worst I will get a free look at the river. 2 chances to pair my overcards.
Turn:
I don't need the river now. I get checked to, bet, and get the fold.
Result: +$14 Finally, my plan worked.
HAND #91
-[Tc][Td] UG. I don't like raising here in loose game because it will usually cost me money. I limp in with this hand. and there are 4 of us to the flop including the Blinds.
Flop: [Th][Js]
YES! My 1st set in almost 2 weeks. (Actually my 2nd, but the last 1 came with 3 of the same suit on the flop and I lost it.) SB bets, BB calls, I raise, and only the Blinds call.
Turn:
Why me? Now I'm in trouble, but I still refuse to believe that somebody has something better every big hand I get. SB bets, BB folds, but I keep up the aggression and raise again, SB calls.
River:
Now I know I'm done. Any 8or Q beats me. SB bets and I have to call it down. He turns over [Jh] for the straight.
Result: -$18 I may have made a mistake preflop, but I don't think it would have mattered anyway. SB was Extra Loose w/ over 60%VP$IP and went to the showdown over 50% and probably would have called the raise here anyway. Even raising on the turn with the straight on board was right as I was still ahead at that point, but I just can't avoid that river.