I check this thread every morning just to drool....
I don't have the $$$$ maker....mine was discussed, slammed, hammered, kicked, and basically called a POS the last time I mentioned it.
It's claim to fame, however, is that it's spent more time in Iraq than in my kitchen!!
I've been dying to get a Gaggia one of these years, but that machine will NEVER leave the house!!!
Besides, I'm more of the "shade tree mechanic" approach to espresso - even a lousy glob is better than none at all...and always a learning experience.
Couple of the guys here blew me away with some amaaaaaaaaaazing french press coffee at the MB Herf...but that's another story!!!
Keep them pics coming Moo!!!!