Read something similar from an old Bosch engineer who said modern coils have enough voltage to jump a 3mm gap no problem. Sounds like I got away with a few of those lazy tune ups back in the day.

That bit about finding out insurance was double what you budgeted really hit home. It's like once you think you've got everything figured out, reality throws a curveball. I've noticed this pattern with almost any big purchase or life decision - there's always that one hidden cost that nobody warns you about until you're already committed. Like when I bought my car and found out the registration fees were way more than the dealer mentioned, or when my buddy closed on a house only to discover the sewer line needed replacing. It makes you wonder what other surprises are lurking out there that we just don't think to ask about until it's too late.

@salanagallagher got it right mostly. One thing though - sourdough isn't just about flavor. The texture difference is huge too. Your crumb structure changes completely with a strong starter. That open hole pattern you see in bakery bread? Hard to get with instant yeast alone. Plus the crust gets this deep caramelized crunch that store yeast just never gives you.

A buddy of mine had a battery die mid-measurement on a rush job and had to redo the whole batch.

Buddy of mine hiked the JMT last summer and met a guy who'd been clearing blowdowns on the same five-mile stretch near Reds Meadow for over a decade, just himself with a handsaw. Said he never knew the guy's name, just that the trail was always passable.