Cocktails 101? Things I Have Learned

I have learned a lot lately, in short period of time. And, for reals, made better cocktails than I have paid for in about 90% of my past (Philly comes to mind.)

On the bartending scale, I know there are not high-ranking techniques, but they feel like baby steps, minor accomplishments. Such as:

Making simple syrup & grenadine, cracking ice in the hand, flaming a zest, making Don Lee's of PDT bacon infused bourbon, shaking and stirring techniques, and in general, just having a better understanding and appreciation.