What can I say that Pat hasn't already written. His eloquently written post (my polite Canadian way of saying hoky f@*k dude thats a long post) pretty much covers it all. So all I will say is this, if you haven't made it out to Chicago then you absolutely have to. It's not about the commerce, its about the human interaction. From random people met at the show to the meeting of fellow forum member Allan and his friend Roger. While the pipes are remarkable they pale in comparison to the people.
To my travel companions, all jokes about lactose intolerance aside, I couldnt have asked for better room mates and fellow fiist timers. Life long friends and hopefully long time travellers to the show.
And now to the pictures. First up is the total haul
Next is Pat looking a little sleep deprived and star struck sitting next to Per Jensen
This is what greeted show goers as we entered the hall, note Lee Erk in the back right
Now the Pipes! This is my Savinelli Bing's Favourite
My first Peterson, an Ashford Cumberland 03
My first Dunhill purchase, an estate (I think 2000ish) Cumberland Group 1 billiard
Finally my first Artisan carved pipe, a Ryan Alden sandblasted straight Dublin, this pipe is incredibly light, the button is the best I've ever put in my mouth and the draw is smooth and open, could not be happier. If you are looking for an artisan pipe, go look at Ryan's pipes.
And finally, the item that will force me to buy a new vehicle after 11 hours with the lactose twins
