Today we merely got through the starting introduction areas, and worked on our epic prologues a little. Feel free to work the epic so long as you can actually do it, pick up a craft, and be level 6-8 to join with us as we start in Ered Luin (Thorin's Hall) next week!
If you start in a different area, you can fast travel to Ered Luin from Michel Delving or Bree West Gate stable masters.
Should you select a craft, feel free to note it and I will get you a basic 3 in 1 tool set sent over.