I had a great day at the Briary in Birmingham today. I got to try lots of samples, see lots of pipes, and meet lots of new people, Facebook friends in person, and some friends from the forum here.
Meeting Erik Nording was the highlight. He is such a great down to earth guy. I asked lots of questions about the pipes that I have, and some that I want of his. And, we got to talk a little about hunting.
I also participated in the slow smoking contest. I will have to say that even after practicing for weeks, when they hand you those two little bitty matches and everyone's eyes are on you, it is intimidating, knowing you only have a minute or so to get her lit. But, I made it 24 minutes and was the fifth person out. I noticed the first four go out, and I snickered. Then, I noticed the little trail of smoke that I was keeping going stopped. I panicked and tamped, while drawing in short puffs. If it had not extinguished on its own, I am sure that I killed what minuscule fire that may have remained. I just tried to go too slow. Next time, I will just focus on keeping it going, instead of going as slow as possible. or, some variation in between. It was fun none-the-less.
At least the winner was a fellow forum member here, Vorheez (sp?) and, I got to meet shaintiques and politicalmonster in person also. The winner got an awesome Nording pipe/knife combo. Very beautiful. I hope he posts a picture on here.
All in all, a good time was had by all. And, our wallets are a lot lighter, ha ha!!
Meeting Erik Nording was the highlight. He is such a great down to earth guy. I asked lots of questions about the pipes that I have, and some that I want of his. And, we got to talk a little about hunting.
I also participated in the slow smoking contest. I will have to say that even after practicing for weeks, when they hand you those two little bitty matches and everyone's eyes are on you, it is intimidating, knowing you only have a minute or so to get her lit. But, I made it 24 minutes and was the fifth person out. I noticed the first four go out, and I snickered. Then, I noticed the little trail of smoke that I was keeping going stopped. I panicked and tamped, while drawing in short puffs. If it had not extinguished on its own, I am sure that I killed what minuscule fire that may have remained. I just tried to go too slow. Next time, I will just focus on keeping it going, instead of going as slow as possible. or, some variation in between. It was fun none-the-less.
At least the winner was a fellow forum member here, Vorheez (sp?) and, I got to meet shaintiques and politicalmonster in person also. The winner got an awesome Nording pipe/knife combo. Very beautiful. I hope he posts a picture on here.
All in all, a good time was had by all. And, our wallets are a lot lighter, ha ha!!
