Try soaking in vinegar - it's a good solvent before curing and I've had good luck using it to soften cured epoxies on screw threads, etc. Be advised it dissolves rust, so it also will play hell with salts-based bluing.
AKA The P-Man
If you cherish your memories with kids, be a good role model . . . . so the RIGHT memories of you mean something to them.
