Yeah I had one of those as well, a flyback transformer from a tube TV. I even bought plans for the ruby laser, but didn't have the resources to build it.
I've been interested in lasers since I saw Real Genius at the theater. Back then it was more of a casual interest; later on, in high school, it grew into something more. That's when I assembled my first laser, a simple He-Ne laser; I think I purchased the parts from Meridith Instruments or...