Actually, putting in that extra time usually shows in the final piece for me. A quick sketch has energy, but a finished render has a whole different level of polish. Both have their place though.

Man, I totally get that. I just read something about how morning exercise actually helps your brain work better for the whole day.

Seems like a lot for a cleaning kit, idk. I just keep mine in a bag.

My hands are so clumsy I couldn't stretch a pair of socks, let alone my fingers. Always figured those kinds of tips were for people with more coordination than me. Your post actually makes it sound like something a normal person could do without feeling silly. Might have to swallow my pride and try it, because the soreness is real. Sounds a lot better than my current plan, which is just complaining about it.

Lauraw88, that bit about cold making poles brittle is spot on. It reminds me of when my buddy's fishing rod snapped in half during a winter camping trip. He had left it leaning against his tent overnight, and when he picked it up in the morning, it just came apart in his hands. Lauraw88, your comment made me realize how common this kind of thing is with gear in the cold. We all assumed the rod was tough until the temperature dropped. Now I'm extra careful with anything metal or plastic when it gets freezing outside.