Thanks for the welcome.
I've tried a little WoW in the hiatus, and a good bit of Halo to keep me video-game wise busy. But I've always had a soft spot for UO, and it feels good to be back.
I really enjoy the crafting, resource gathering, item creations. In particular mastering blacksmithing, alchemy and bowcrafting are always a soft spot for me. I never got into any PvP much before, but am beginning to want to taste it more intentionally rather than when pressed to. My fondest memories would be when I finally got GM smithing for the first time on OSI; felt like I had climbed a mountain. And then discovering and using provocation to work dragons on Hythloth island would be the highlight of my PvM career.
I am currently trying a free shard, Pandora. It seems quite good but I have so much to learn I'm not sure how good. I do like the bushido and ninjitsu skills, what I've seen of them so far. Add some great special skills for a guy like me who gravitates to the hiding/stealth/archery/poison side of things, and away from the magery side.