Well, we are going into Week #4 of my beginners pipe journey! I gotta say, this is going much better than my previous cigar expirement. I never REALLY enjoyed smoking cigars, but I enjoyed the concept, the ritual, and the diversity. For the past 3-4 years, I would OCCASIONALLY smoke a cigar, maybe 10 per year. I can't tell you how many cigars went bad, because I just didn't want to go smoke.
Pipe smoking has been different. I actually look forward to stopping for an hour in my day, packing a bowl, and sitting down to enjoy a smoke. I don't smoke everyday, but I do most days.
I have made some investments in a couple of pipes, and a dozen or so bulk tobacco blends, to see of I start to develop a palate. So far, I am leaning to the middle, which is normal for me, preferring both light non-aromatics, as well as light aromatics. I haven't ventured too far from that. I have also stuck primarily with bulk, ribbon cut tobaccos.
Eventually, I will venture out more into the wilderness of choices. But I am trying to rein myself in now. Typically, when starting a new hobby, I go all out and spend a bunch of time and money, only to get bored and move on. This time, I am enjoying the process and learning the rituals. I am very much enjoying reading the threads here, and soaking in the knowledge.
I knew I was hooked when I went outside last night, and sat on my patio in 48° blustery weather, and smoked a pipe for 40 minutes. I didn't finish the bowl, I finally called it and went inside. I know what you're thinking, but that is COLD for Los Angeles.
Anyway, thanks for the warm welcome to the forum and the community! Here is to week #4 and hopefully many more to come!
Pipe smoking has been different. I actually look forward to stopping for an hour in my day, packing a bowl, and sitting down to enjoy a smoke. I don't smoke everyday, but I do most days.
I have made some investments in a couple of pipes, and a dozen or so bulk tobacco blends, to see of I start to develop a palate. So far, I am leaning to the middle, which is normal for me, preferring both light non-aromatics, as well as light aromatics. I haven't ventured too far from that. I have also stuck primarily with bulk, ribbon cut tobaccos.
Eventually, I will venture out more into the wilderness of choices. But I am trying to rein myself in now. Typically, when starting a new hobby, I go all out and spend a bunch of time and money, only to get bored and move on. This time, I am enjoying the process and learning the rituals. I am very much enjoying reading the threads here, and soaking in the knowledge.
I knew I was hooked when I went outside last night, and sat on my patio in 48° blustery weather, and smoked a pipe for 40 minutes. I didn't finish the bowl, I finally called it and went inside. I know what you're thinking, but that is COLD for Los Angeles.
Anyway, thanks for the warm welcome to the forum and the community! Here is to week #4 and hopefully many more to come!
