Five months ago, Jeremy Hilsercop became the center of the poker world’s attention after his wife Randi posted a video showing Jeremy getting a WSOP Big 50 buy-in for Christmas.

The video quickly went viral and in the 48 hours that followed, Jeremy ended up with a free seat in the $25,000 buy-in PokerStars Players Championship and had the entire poker world cheering him on. The chaotic days that followed included getting passports, airplane tickets, and planning for a trip to the Bahamas that was just a few days away.

While the PSPC trip certainly had the makings of a potential fairytale, Jeremy busted out on Day 1, well before the money. With all of that now behind them, the Hilsercops are now in Las Vegas with Jeremy playing Day 1A of the Big 50. It’s a completely different experience from what he went through in January and it’s got very little to do with the difference in buy-in.

“It’s a lot different. I’m a lot more comfortable. I actually slept last night. It’s not real hectic. I can just be myself and go play poker. It’s 100% different this time,” Jeremy said. “I’m calm, collected and just ready to play.”

Since leaving the Bahamas in early January, life has largely returned to its normal state for Jeremy. He’s been working and focused on spending time with his family while also finding some time to play some cash games. That doesn’t mean he hasn’t had this day circled on his calendar since Christmas though.

“This is what got me. This is my dream. My dream is to play at the WSOP and this is what I’ve always wanted to do,” Jeremy said. He’s got a huge virtual rail back home in Tennessee with nobody more excited than his two kids, Michael and Madison.

The early bust out from PSPC was his first taste of a big buy-in live tournament action and while it didn’t come with a Hendon Mob entry, he learned a thing or two along the way. He’s brought those lessons with him to the WSOP and has a simple gameplan to make the most of this whole experience.

“Play smart, keep my chips in front of me and get ready for Day 2,” Jeremy said.

During his time in the Bahamas, Jeremy got to understand a little bit of what it’s like to be a well-known poker pro. Players at his table knew who he was and he was frequently asked about his story. He also got a fair bit of media attention. Returning to civilian life, Jeremy doesn’t expect too many people are going to remember him and he’s just fine with that.

“Whether I get recognized or not, I’m not thinking about it. I’m just thinking about playing,” Jeremy said.