whats the best way to play pocket pairs like say 77 or 88. i know i dont want to risk my whole stack on mid pockets but what is a good bet to get rid of the limpers? and what about say KK or AA, do you play them different than mid pockets?

Depends on the situation. I usually look at the stacks around me to determine the play. If there are some short stacks, I ask myself if they are desperate or can they play tight? If they do play tight, if they jam, am I willing to play?

I also look to see how the betting is preflop before it gets to me. If there is a small raise, I might play along just to 'hope for a set'. If I don't hit it, and there's significant betting, I'll happily go away.

If there is no one opening before me, I'll be happy to open for 2.5x-3x the BB. If there looks to be someone who might shove, again, I have to reassess the situation.

For KK and AA, I will play them different than middle pairs. I want to get as much action as possible. If I can get it all in pre, so much the better. If I get it all in pre with KK or AA and lose, I understand it's part of the game. I'm not thrilled, but again, I have to expect it from time to time.

Playing mid pockets really depends more on the table your on more than anything.Depending on the types of player I am playing I play them differently. I don't really think the stack size of my opponents matters too much (although I play cash tables ).Mid pockets can be tricky but also can pay off very well.My advise would be to pay attention to the players on your table. Know their betting patterns and habits. this will take you much farther than following a pre set plan for mid pockets.A good card player plays the players not the cards.