First time, round two.

[NorthWoodsAb]

So I grew up shining. My Dad spent his weekends in the basement either mashing or running a batch. I spent time with my Dad not realizing at the time what I was learning at an early age would stick with me all my life.
I got back into it a few years back, new swambo with 6 step kids. At the time the oldest lad was 15 and he would come down to the "Lab" help me out and we would play crib and BS while I was tending the still, and he was soaking it in.
So I spent this past Sunday toasting 2.5 kilo of oats. I've been adding oats to my rum for a while now, liked the results. Decided to see if toasting would add the flavor I've been seeking.
Stepson #3, who is now 15, he and I have had our differences, said "I'll be your official taster"
Me:" Not unless you help me get it ready for taste test, from start to tasting."
#3; "I'd like that Dad"
I like that too.
I fondly remember brew/still days with my Dad.
With luck there will be a couple more Home Distillers hooked on making a better dram. And I'll have a better life long connection with my kids.
Cheers.

[Black Bull]

Welcome mate.
Great if you can find ways to work hobbies in with kids.

[Twisted Brick]

Great story, Northwoods. Life growing up with a step-dad wasn’t always rosy for me, but it was good and when I got older we spent many occasions discussing literally anything over bottles of wine or drams of scotch. My two brothers and I knew he wasn’t our real Dad but we called him Dad because he acted like one.

One day your boys will be telling the story of how they learned the art of distilling from their Dad.

[Swedish Pride]

Nice story nw

Bet something got in your eyes when he said that

[BlackStrap]

Good story NorthWoodsAb

Anytime you can include the family on a positive adventure is a win.

Have fun enjoying the 2nd round.
Blackstrap

[NorthWoodsAb]

Thanks for the comments and encouragement guys.
Swedish, yea it kinda tugged on me a little.
So on weeken I'd told Jon, the 15yo we'd be setting prob Tues evening it would probably be fermented out by weekend.
Get home late from work last night around 20:00hr, he and Jay now 23 were both in the kitchen. Said it was too late to start cooking and I was beat.
Jay looked inquisitive about what we were talking about. When told he said with a laugh, "oh yes we've played a lot of crib down in that lab"
Good times.