Ahoy, Muggles!
It's great to be back on MEOW - the forum where nearly anything goes, and we all have @DrTom to thank for continuing the tradition. While he is taking a break this week, let me continue to push the MEOW envelope by bringing you "Before & After". As you will see, today's puzzle features a rather unusual 15x18 grid with a section at the bottom for the meta answer. I realize that this is rather unorthodox, but I promise it will all make sense in the end. So while you're solving, try to avoid revealing and/or checking squares in the answer section if you don't want to spoil the meta. Several kind folks tested many versions of this puzzle several months ago. To avoid omitting anyone, let me again thank you all here along with @Joe Ross for your help!
The meta answer is someone who's adept at turning a phrase.
Before & After
Crosshare (*see note below)
PUZ
Difficulty - I'm thinking Calico/Persian or around a 2.5.
Nudges are here.
Solution is here.
Good luck!
Cap'n Rick
*Note: If using Crosshare you will notice a cool effect when the grid is completed. You will still need to submit the meta answer to make and read comments.
