An early Christmas present from Dad

Proclaimed as one of the top tobacco pipe makers in the world, Peterson pipes took my interest. But Peterson pipes can be hard to find, especially a churchwarden. My father procured the pipe given to me from the place of its birth, Dublin Ireland.

The latest addition to the family

Savinelli pipe stand

A lovely Savinelli pipe stand from Cigarrummet in Stockholm. 

Lee Van Cleef, bad ass pipe smoker

My First Briar Pipe

A few days ago I was introduced to my first briar pipe by Eric Chaika, owner of Red Carpet Smoke Shop. I tried holding several pipes of various styles and weights before making my decision. I also walked away with pipe cleaners and a pouch for keeping tobacco. Eric has a strict routine to breaking in new pipes and suggested I follow. For my first six smokes I am to fill the bowl of the pipe only a third of the way. Then, for the next six smokes I fill the bowl two-thirds of the way. And finally the pipe can be packed full. 

Tobacco Pipe

As a boy my father had a good friend who smoked a tobacco pipe. Unlike the cigarettes my father smoked, the pipe had a wonderful smell. The aroma and good feelings the pipe gave me have remained to this day.

I was happily surprised to receive the gift of a tobacco pipe from my good friend. After a brief demonstration, including the packing of the pipe using a pipe tool, I was off and puffing.