This one is for you poker players out there. I'm interested in hearing how old you were when you started playing for money, what it felt like the first time you were in a casino, etc..

The basic gist of what I'm looking for is answers to questions such as these: What year did you start playing? Were you inspired by friends or professional players on TV? Who is your poker idol? How frequently do you play? For how much? Do you play online? Have you tried learning any other games other than the first one you learned? Do you own any books on strategy?

I'm hoping this will lead into a larger discussion, but that is getting hasty. You're also welcome to post the worst hand you ever lost (due to bad beat, significant loss of money, etc.).