csw,
You rock, dude!

I'm so happy for you. But more so for your wife, for she is one LUCKY lady.

Get this: I made a list, per your suggestions, of all the things I need to make good beer and H and I have gone to the beer supply store two times (and arranged for a babysitter twice, which is the logistical equivalent of arranging a mideast peace talk) and it was CLOSED!! We're back on the We Gotta Get There bandwagon, though, cause I bought some Pete's Wicked Ale over the weekend and I found it to be quite bland and not wicked at all.

Glad you checked in; I can't think of anyone I'd like to hear more good news from!

Take care, friend.

h.