The Briar Menagerie

Well, another Chicago show has come and gone, and just as last year I wasn’t there.  Not for lack of trying, but it just wasn’t in the cards.  So what are us poor slobs who don’t get to go to the show to do?

 Well, first and foremost, I think that we need to read and hear all about the exploits of those fortunate few who did go.  See the pictures and reminisce about those friends who we see there.  Read about the fun the folks had, fondling pipes new and old.  And make plans for the next show that comes along.

 Of course, there are many other things that we can do to soothe our souls.  For one thing, I plan on delving back into my photographic efforts and catalogue al the pipes in my collection.  We got a new camera a while back and it takes first rate pictures.  I have a home made light box too.  Built using PVC and some sheer white cloth.  The other thing that I will do with regards to this effort is to jot down the notes and details about these pipes that are squirreled away in my dusty old head.  Give them a story and history.  Or more to the point write down their story and history.  Maybe not quite the provenance of a master’s painting, but at least a start.  And perhaps, if a pipe passes out of my collection, they will continue to add to those notes and stories.  Were this the case with my recently reacquired Roush, I would be drinking in the tales of his travels. 

 I am torn at the moment as to acquiring new pipes.  Well, not torn about acquiring them, god knows that I want nearly all the pipes I see.  But torn as to my focus.  I have limited myself for about a year to acquire only those pipes that fit into the categories I have set up.  Currently, I focus on Oliver Camphausen, Sixten Ivarsson’s, Anne Julie’s, Larry Roush’s Roland Schwarz’ and Trever Talbert’s pipes.  Also I collect the Ballerina shape.  Of course, I collect my own pipes, but I really don’t consider that a collection.  They are a different thing.  A labor of love, so to speak. 

 I have to say, I am proud of my own forbearance.  I have not acquired any pipes outside these categories in a long time.  But the yearning has been growing stronger of late.  ASP’s Ian recently showed me a picture of a wonderful Chonowitsch traditional blowfish that is sorely tempting me.  Not that I have all the cash needed to purchase it, but if I set my mind to it, I think I could swing it.  The urge is a constant annoying itch that seems perpetually in the background.  I desire the excitement and anticipation of a new pipe.  The anxious waiting for the postman to bring it to my door.  And the revelry of getting to know a new pipe.  Rolling it in my hands, and striking that first light.

 This urge is countered by a measured, reasonable voice that says there is a pipe out there that is meant to be mine.  Meant to fit into my menagerie of a collection perfectly.  And if I let fly on a pipe obtuse to my collection, I will miss out on that one that will fit in.  So, I wait.  Count my change and toss the extra dollars in my pocket into my pipe slush fund.

 We’ll see.  The pipe or pipes for me are out there.  I just need to be patient enough to wait for them.

 How do you all deal with the desire for new pipes?  What tricks might others employ to stave off rah purchases?

 I’d love to hear your thoughts.

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