Acceptance and last-minute gift frenzy

Wow. Jon's older brother (who is still two years younger than I am) has accepted me into their family tradition of the Hearty Handclasp. To perform this greeting one must be very relaxed, and hold out your arm with your hand *completely* relaxed. You then shuffle closer to the other person whose hand is just as relaxed and touch thumbs and forefingers. Somehow this is amusing every time you do it. Last night was my first time. I felt included.

This weekend has been an extended Keystone Kops episode of trips to San Burdendino, waiting, hurrying, forgetting things, and pigging out. Today I spent most of the day in the studio. Are *any* of the presents done? That would be no. At 7:30 PM I melted a chunk of one present and gave up for the night. Mom and I went in search of food and were thrilled to find a Mimi's Cafe open. So much nicer than Denny's for Christmas Eve dinner. I'm getting up about 7 hours from now and going back in to finish everything. This time for sure.

What have we learned here?

A trial piece that is a proof-of-concept for a new technique still doesn't work as a prototype.
Do not plan to make a prototype as a gift at the last minute.
When you know you're short on time, don't get fancy where you don't need to.

If these projects do not erupt in flames, I'll post photos on my website soon. I'm very pleased with the overall shapes of everything, but both pieces require complicated assembly with multiple solder joints.
Everyone have a lovely day tomorrow, whether it's a big deal or just another Monday.