First New Pipe In A While

[dread]

Howdy folks! I've been absent from the boards for a few months. As some of you know, I had been experiencing some personal difficulties. I was blessed by the members of this forum and some kind folks sent me a few pipes and some tobacco to tide me through. Shortly after that I reverted to smoking cigarettes again, I suspect due to the stress (suspect my butt - it was totally due to the stress). So I quit smoking all tobacco products until I managed to quit smoking the cigarettes. It was safer and smarter for me not to visit the forums for a bit while I did that.
Buuuuuuuuuut . . . now I'm not smoking cigarettes and have taken the pipe back up. And, though things aren't perfect, things are much better for my family now. So, being it was recently my birthday and all, I decided to get a new pipe. The first new pipe that I have purchased in quite some time. And, I decided to take the plunge into American Artisan carvers, going with one of the most experienced yet affordable (for me) carvers, Mark Tinsky. In my favorite shape, the bulldog, in a finish that is uniquely Tinsky's, the Black and Tan. It came today, can't wait to smoke it!

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[dread]

 

[aldecaker]

Gorgeous pipe. Now just find a blend that pairs well with a liquid Black-and-Tan!

 

[mso489]

Oh my heart be still. I really react to well brought-together textures and finishes in a pipe, and that is done with much energy yet equal restraint. It's a good way to celebrate your improving life situation. Good to have you back in the conversation.

 

[jkrug]

That's a beautiful pipe...I love the black and tan colour. Enjoy!
I like adlecaker's liquid black and tan idea also! ::

 

[cosmicfolklore]

That's sharp!!!

That would fit in perfect with my collection. I'm envious. Enjoy!!

 

[settersbrace]

Man, that bulldog really rings the bell for me. Congrats! And welcome back!

 

[anthonyrosenthal74]

Very nice looking pipe. And I'm another one liking the idea of a drinkable black and tan to accompany that pipe. Welcome back

 

[plateauguy]

Outstanding! Be still my heart!

 

[raevans]

Absolutely stunning pipe!! Enjoy..

 

[jackswilling]

Amazing pipe. Sounds like it is well deserved after biting the bullet on the cigs. Thank you for sharing.

 

[seagullplayer]

Happy Birthday!

 

[layinpipe]

Welcome back dread, glad to see you back in action. I'm such a big fan of Mark's work and own 4 of his creations, 1 being a commission, and you just cannot find a better value with such great quality. That pipe really popped out at me in the best way possible and i absolutely love it. The contrasting natural smooth and black rustication is simply gorgeous, along with the tasteful use of what i assume is masur birch shank extension that really compliments the rest of the pipe. I know you will enjoy it for many years to come. Smoke (only pipes!) in good health, buddy! Cheers.