Well so far I have had some good quality time with the Black Obsession and I have a few vague observations:
Mapping is more difficult-
I did some mapping and got a chance to see a few artfull things but I decided to take a quick break from mapping it to explore a little.
Tricks versus hand skill - A few tricks in there thus far and I think it has not been to difficult in that dept...yet. I feel at this point most of the challenge has been in consistantly moving where I need to. My reward is progression and cramped hands. I play as I watch TV so I will take a break and rest my hands then go back to working on puzzle. That seems to keep me going with the most attempts. I will then take a break after about 30 -60 minutes and come back to it later with a fresh mind.
Gameplan:
Simply put...progression...I am not looking at the goal but self made checkpoints. If I get to a new one I will decide make this new progression a few times to burn it into my mind(or map if mapping)and then I can put the puzzle away with a smile. If it does not reveal anything I scratch my head and begin tracing my steps. Mapping then is reconcidered and it is done as thoroughly as I can freehand.
Mapping?
When I start getting stumped or something funny is going on I start from the beginning and map it all. It is usually one graph paper square = one pin size.
Thats about it. So far I feel I have at least gotten halfway through it (although I am leaning on past halfway)
I am enjoying it so far
![Smile :)](./images/smilies/icon_e_smile.gif)