[development] core user_login customization -- getting breakout theming AND custom validator working at the same time?

[Lee Rowlands]

>>as 'flexible' as Drupal is, I find the same lack of 'real world'
examples for anything but the simplest matters ...

Generally I think of a module that does the same thing and then look to
their code, for a huge multi-step form, have a look at node_import

>>    "If you come from a background where you have created your own
forms directly in HTML, you may find Drupal's approach a bit baffling
at first."

Yes but the XSS, CSRF, session mgmt, user mgmt, permission mgmt and so on
and so on benefits make it worth the time. 

>>In DIY HTML/PHP, 'this' is all trivial.

Yes but see previous point, getting 'this' with 'those' features done
properly is not trivial

>>Building a non-standard workflow around core forms, using Drupal
internals and 3rd party module extension is ... a bit challenging.

Yes you are jumping in at the deep end 

>>Trying to contact the developers whose modules I'm trying to
understand/extend has been less than fruitful, receiving a sometimes
cool reception ... though I _have_ received offers to take my money
for paid consulting ;-)

Well in general with custom requirements you can have it now or you can have
it free, but rarely both