Not all modern nails are magnetic though, stainless steel ones won't stick.

Whoa, never thought about the learning curve actually being a plus. Like, forcing myself to manage a coal fire taught me way more about reading heat colors and fire control than my set-and-forget gas forge ever did. That skill transferred back and made me better with gas too.

Yeah I always waited too long and would lose all my momentum... tried downshifting way earlier last trip and it was a total game changer. Let the engine work while it's still strong instead of gasping for breath later. It really does keep you from that awful bogging down feeling.

Reminds me of when my bike tire went flat from a slow leak I never fixed. Small things really do sneak up on you.

My uncle once brewed a whole pot of extra strong tea for an overnight road trip. His hands were shaking so much he could barely turn the steering wheel straight. He sticks to water on drives now, says it keeps him steady.