Was looking for reviews on a couple blends when I noticed the forum. Seeing multiple Texans on the boards, I was compelled to join as well cause I don't come across too many pipe enthusiasts up here in the DFW area. Maybe just my antisocial tendencies at play. Anyhow, picked up pipes about 15 yrs ago thinking it would be a less expensive alternative to smoking $10+ cigars every day. Turns out I was wrong, but after taking the plunge there was no turning back and now I have a growing cellar and occasionally make a pipe for myself and find myself researching and studying just about everything I can on pipes and tobacco.