Hey man, thanks for the advice. It's sound. I think you're under the impression that I'm just starting out. I've been playing guitar for 10 years, playing everything except for this 80's style shred stuff which I am currently trying to master in the fastest time possible. I consider myself a guitar god capable of doing anything - it's just that I've never bothered with the pinky before. While we're on this ego trip I'll have you know that I've got my gr 8 piano, 5 years of pvt. violin instruction, 11 years of jazz bass playing under my belt and have dived into tuba playing and harmonica. This is all irrelevant .. I'm not saying I don't a helping hand (far from it) and it's totally appreciated. Just to let you know where I stand.

Last night I stuck my finger in a pop can and sliced my index finger on my left hand right where I make contact with the strings, haha. I'll be out of it for a couple days.