After getting back from the World Youth, I took a break for a couple of weeks. However at my next tournament, the Cupertino Octos, I swept the top octos with 3/3 and took home prize money and twenty-six rating points which brought me to 2191 from 2165. When the World Youth got rated, I only got one point for 8/11. Therefore, I needed eight points for my master title. This weekend, I played in the Winter Open. I drew with Dana Mackenzie, a 2117, in the first round. I was tired as I had a huge science test and was studying late the previous night and early that morning. In the next round, I outplayed Siddarth Banik, a 2033, in the Keres Attack. I won the third round quickly against Josiah Steerman, an 1812, on a tactic. After this game, I only needed 3 points to become a master. I was paired with Mike Splane, a 2264 in the fourth round. He played a6 on the first move and his dark squares were weak throughout the game. I gradually outplayed him and then sacrificed a piece to win. I decided not to play the fifth round to guarantee becoming a master and now my rating is 2206! As promised long ago, my dad will get me a puppy and take care of it while my brother and I get to play with it. I want a golden retriever puppy, but my parents are trying to convince me to get a labrador or a pomeranian. On Christmas day, I am going on a five day trip to Los Angeles/San Diego and then am coming back in time for the U.S. Chess School in San Francisco. Happy Holidays, Merry Christmas, and a Happy New Year!
