Well, I should be able to tell you more about the beer in about 2 weeks, as I just kegged it. What I can say, is it is probably one of the best beers, out of 9 batches, I've tasted out of the primary. I know that's not a huge sample size, and this was my first AG. I think it's going to be really fine once carbonated. It's a simple nut brown ale. And the process, although more steps were involved, was really not that bad.
I've had good comments on all of my previous extract batches, but I could tell there was much room for improvement. I agree, I think the DIY aspect of this hobby is nearly as appealling as the brewing (but not so much the consuming). I really like AG brewing, it's kinda like cooking with all fresh ingredients, from scratch. I'm hoping the quality of my beers improves. And, by the by, what is "CRDFM"? Merry Christmas.