Funny thing happened...

Where do I start? About three years ago my Dad died after seven years of defiance of logic and medical know how. I decided after speaking with siblings and family that I should go see a shrink. It was both horrible and great. You see, I only went once, and don't really mind if I never go back again. We talked for about an hour but I will give you the only parts I remember and took with me. She told me that she was not sure if she wanted to take me on as a client because she didn't think that I would make it another 5 years before I ate myself into the grave. She also said that she thought I had been hiding behind my weight and a dinner plate from the world at large because of my daddy issues. At the time I was shocked and dismayed. I kinda walked around of balance for a bit and then told both my wife and a sister what all she had told me. They were outraged. Now, I look back and see that she was right on the mark. So, 165 lbs lost, personal outlook altered, discipline in progress, and belief system altered, I am ready for the world. Aren't I? I have been sitting back and waiting for life to happen. It is time to take things head on. I am not gonna lie to you. It has been great fun sitting on the bench. I am ready to get more out of life.

Cards.

1. What's your favorite playing card game? Why?
Nerts aka: Pounce, Racing Demon, Peanuts or Squeal. It's a competitive patience game for two or more players, each using a deck of cards for each player (or team). The players race to get rid of the cards from their "Nerts piles" by building them from the ace up onto common foundations. It is extreme combative but if you know solitaire then you can adapt to this game. My family plays any chance we can. There are broken nails, jammed fingers, and cat calls abound.
2. Poker: five card draw, seven card stud, or Texas Hold 'Em?
Texas Hold 'em. The element of unknown is the best. The other two are psych out matches. Boring.
3. Where gambling is involved what is the highest amount of money you'd bet on a hand of cards?
I have never bet on cards. I have even been to Las Vegas twice and still have not. No all card playing is for reputation and brag rights. Dad used to tell us that Crocodiles eat their young and your mother plays cards with hers. Same difference.
4. Have you ever had your tarot read with playing cards? If not would you want to? If so was it accurate, interesting, or just plain lame?
I didn't even know that was done.
5. What is on the back of your playing cards (the swirly red/blue design or is it a specialty deck with photographs)?
As of late I have been playing with a deck from Hard Rock Hotel from Las Vegas.