I have always played games and prefer games of skill such as chess, cribbage, and backgammon.  In 1995 I decided I needed to defeat the old man at the Minnesota Renfair.  After losing several games against him I asked where to go to learn more about chess.  I began playing in tournaments and slowly improved.  Disappointed with the rate I was improving, I started taking lessons from a local master.  After a few months he asked if I would be willing to help him with an after school program.  I worked with him for several years. In 2004 I move to Houston and work for USA Chess. I have been teaching children to play chess for 7 years.