[jrblasde]

Quite the interesting stories, sir! Somewhat reminds me of my first job out of school (not that I worked in a similar field). I was an audio video engineer, and we designed and commissioned systems for churches, conference rooms in offices and on military bases, etc. There was a lot of travel involved, and a lot of nights spent in hotels. It was hard on my wife and I. But one thing I felt I was missing out on was a hobby. I took up leather working, and would make things in the hotel room. I’d pack the tools and all in my suitcase. Same with woodworking—I had to stick to hand tools to keep the noise down, but once I made four feet out of oak for a dresser I was restoring. I’d throw down all of the towels on the floor to catch wood shavings, and then go outside after dark to wring them out! 

I also enjoyed cooking in the hotel room. And, no, these weren’t rooms with kitchenettes. I bought an electric skillet pot. I cooked beef bourguignon, spaghetti, even biscuits! I traveled with it, and would put a plate, some silverware, and a chopping knife in the pot. Had to clean it all in the tiny bathroom sink!