Seemed like once you took the heavy torch to it, all the pieces fell in place. You certainly met the challenge and crushed it. You are definitely changing the world one piece at a time.
That was a TON of work!!! Unbelievable outcome. As a Navy Chief, I tip my hat to you. I can't get over your patience. Especially when you're going full speed on an idea and decide later that you want it changed. If I take nothing else away from studying your videos, it would be more than enough to be able to emulate that when I'm carving. I have to admit though, I was out loud saying, "No man! Stop! The anchor is supposed to be gold!" Then at 19:19 I said, "WHEW!!! That was a close one!" Haha. Great Job, brother! :-)
Love it dude! Also glad to see someone else going back after hours of finish trial and error only to burn the shit out of it. I believe it is a Japanese technique called shou sugi ban. Love your work!