Amen Brother! I have to admit that I do own a hydrometer but do not feel the need to use it other than to occasionally check the alcohol content of a brew when curious. Personally I do not really care that much about ac, got into this hobby/obsession because I really enjoy a good beer and was...
+1 on the practical joke use of vegemite. Lived there for two years and learned two valuable lessons very quickly: 1 - DO NOT eat vegemite and 2 - do not get into a beer drinking contest with an Aussie, they drink it like water there.
Hello and welcome from Alexandria, AL. Although it is illegal to make homebrew here, it is not illegal to purchase or sell the ingredients to make it. No problem having equipment/ingredients shipped here. Also, check out Alabrew in B'ham.