The morning after the second class meeting and I'm awake at 3:37am. Seems like as good a time as any to think about metal.

Class was really great. The instructor, Jim, provides a safe, comfortable, challenging learning environment. His attitude is that we should explore and experiment as much as possible without worrying about whether we think he thinks we're doing art. If the weld holds, it's good. If we want to buff out the weld mark, fine. If we think having the weld mark is desirable, fine. Right now is about learning the skills that will lead to the craft. It's a terrific feeling of freedom and even the smallest gains feel like great accomplishments.