“Isn’t he adorable…”, “Ah just look at her beautiful little face…”, “Goochy-goochy-coo…”

No. This is just wrong. Nine months of waddling around like a penguin, God knows how long trying to squeeze it out, described by some (most?) as shitting a watermelon, and finally they hand you a tiny, purple, toothless, half-blind slime-covered squawking mess with a face like a screwed up crisp bag. Perhaps these compliments (on your finally having joined the ranks of the poor) are all planned to drag you from the horrific reality that everything you knew about life is about to go down the pan. If anyone had said my son looked like me at birth they’d have been repeatedly punched.

A baby, at birth, looks like Winston Churchill. Regardless of sex. OK, they look better when they’ve inflated a bit, or been ironed in the night by a friendly midwife (I assume this is how the wrinkles go), but we need some honesty here – here’s a list of suitable comments you can feel free to use the next time someone holds one of these objects in your face for approval. Feel free to use them as and when necessary:

“What is it?”
“Will it bite?”
“I’m sorry, will it grow out of it?”
“It looks like it smells.”
“Don’t worry, they can work wonders nowadays.”
“Do you want me to hold your chimp?”
“Of course I’ll hold him/her. Does he/she bounce?”
“Did you have it on purpose?”

This short selection of non-offensive phrases have served me well over the years, to the point where babies rarely get presented to me. Happy Days.

Marketing is often shoved to the back of the queue as a priority, usually because of its airy-fairy image and a lack of understanding. Often, if a company has any form of marketing budget it will be the first thing to go in a recession, whereas this is when it’s needed most. I’ve been involved with large companies in the past, principally in the Financial Services industry, who have little or no clue about marketing, and who certainly have never thought of setting aside any sort of budget to carry it out. So let’s look at one or two effective marketing solutions with the start-up business in mind:

Advertising in the Media

Why do companies like Coca-Cola still advertise? It sounds like a stupid question but think about it. We all know who Coca-Cola are, and we all know what a bottle of Coke looks and tastes like, so why bother? Well, there are obvious answers:

Competition – If Coca-Cola stopped advertising who do you think would wipe out both them and any other non-advertising competition? Correct: Pepsi. Why? Because they DO advertise.

Brand Awareness – Coca-Cola has arguably the world’s top branding, and is instantly recognisable in almost every country where it’s sold, which happens to be almost every country full stop. Even good old Santa Claus owes his red and white imagery to an early Coke advertising campaign. In his original European guise St Nick wore robes of a blue-green. If I asked you to name a sweet, fizzy, brown drink and suggested the colours red and white then you’d probably think of Coke. If I said red, white and blue, then you may think of Pepsi.

Brand awareness like this costs big bucks and would be outside of the budget of all but the largest companies.

So if you’re marketing on a budget where should you advertise? The answer depends on what it is you’re selling. If you’re selling cars or property then the local free paper always seems to keep businesses at the forefront of people’s minds. If you’re a chippy or brickie then ditto. If you’re selling a service like mine (providing bespoke seminars for professional bodies) then clearly the local rag won’t cut it. The first rule of advertising is to research your market, then search out periodicals or other media that feed that market and advertise there. In my case, trade journals, the pinks and other specialist magazines would be an ideal start. However, even a small ad may be outside of the budget of a small start-up business. So what can be done for a minimal or low outlay, and will it work?

Website

Use blogging software to produce your own website. I use WordPress for mine,  as it was only meant to be a form of online business card, rather than a site which people will search for. That’s largely because I don’t have a business that people will search for, as I occupy a very small niche within my industry. In fairness, anyone who knows about this sort of thing will tell you that Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) is largely ineffective with blog sites, so accept its limitations in the short term at least. You can, however, fill up the website with all the information you’d like people to have, but would never have the time to tell them.

I’ve stayed with WordPress, but have moved the site to my own domain. I have a contact who can do this for less than £20 a year, so have a look at Crimson Leaf Copywriting and Marketing in its latest form.

Businesses without a website are just begging not to be taken seriously, and although having your own domain name is better, we must remember that we’re on a budget here. No expertise is required to set one of these sites up, and if you’re reading this then you’re reading it on my site, so have a look around at the rest of the site and see what I mean.

Social Media

Like most of you I looked upon Facebook, MySpace and Twitter as kiddies’ time-fillers for the first couple of years. MySpace seems to have had its day to a certain extent, and is probably more useful for fledgling bands to showcase their work. The other two are a different kettle of fish however.

Facebook

The owners of Facebook have realised that business can benefit from social networking on as grand scale. It is now possible to set up a Facebook Business Page, which frankly has some limitations. Even the personal Facebook pages will allow you to set up an advert for your business, with paid advertising which works on a pay per click basis. On a personal note I have adapted my personal Facebook page to reflect my business by ruthlessly culling my family members and making it business focussed. I have cut them from my life, (in the business sense at least) and I’ve also opened it up to the public.

Twitter

In my view Twitter is the daddy of them all. The idea is that you can broadcast any message of 140 characters or fewer in real time to the whole world. Your Tweets appear, along with every other Tweet in the Tweeting universe, in the Public Time Line. Within a short while you will find that you have followers: Tweeters who have made a point of specifically looking out for your Tweets. You may follow them back, or you may already have found someone to follow all on your own. Stephen Fry, David Mitchell, Bill Bailey and Jonathan Ross are four that I follow just for amusement.

But Twitter can be a powerful business tool too. Firstly, make sure your Twitter profile is up to date with website address, contact number and photograph. If you’ve ever looked at Twitter you will know that those without a photo stick out like sore thumbs, and not in a good way. I offer my services to the clients of IFAs, solicitors and accountants, and therefore need to network specifically in these areas. Using Twellow (the Yellow Pages of Twitter) I searched for all three groups and identified those within sensible operating range, which in my case is nationwide. I then started to follow them, in reality a form of cyber-stalking. Within a week, 60% of those I chose were following me back, probably just out of curiosity. Some of these were undoubtedly using Auto-Follow, which just goes to show why you shouldn’t. You should try to choose your followers as carefully as those you follow, as fellow Tweeters will often look at your circle of friends and judge you by them. Successful Twittering is is a question of selectivity, as no one will want to know you if all your followers are people running porn sites.

On the other hand, maybe that bit needs thinking through a bit more…

So, after you’ve culled your followers (remember, quality not quantity) you will be left with a bespoke group to whom you can market, and marketing this group isn’t about shoving your product or service down their throat. On the contrary, it’s the last thing you want to do, at least for now. Post amusing one liners; respond to the Tweets of others; write an article for your blog and publish the link; pass on useful bits of information posted by other users (known as Re-Tweeting). Every now and again Tweet about your service and invite questions, thus creating a dialogue. Only after some sort of relationship has been formed can you venture into direct email contact.

I have just received an invitation to tender for Government training contracts from a delightful woman I was following, just because she found my Tweets amusing! But in return I’ve also pointed out a dead link in one of her Tweets, which will help her own marketing. With Tweeting it helps to offer some form of reciprocal help, and if you can’t then pay it forward.

Networking

There are two types of networking: Online and face to face.

A quick Google search on Business Networking will find you Linkedin and Ecademy, two of the largest networking forums available today. Linkedin has been the most productive for me, as has IFA Life, another online offering, and obviously specifically tailored to my market. Each of these sites requires you to fill in an online profile, which should be as full as you can make it while being sure not to be confusing about your message.

Face to face networking though is by far the most effective. For my money the premier organisation for networking is 4Networking, or 4N as it’s known, formed by the scariest character in the country, Brad Burton. This man has too much energy for one body, and should really be on medication. Research Brad for yourself and see what I mean, but don’t underestimate this man’s achievements. 4N has 20,000 members, ranging from one man bands to corporations. There are 200 groups meeting across the country and paid members can attend any of them for their fee. And talking of fees, this is the first of my marketing strategies to cost any money. For just a couple of hundred pounds it is possible to become a 4N Passporter, and use all of 4N’s networking opportunities, including the coveted 4Sight slot, where you can pass on useful business tips to your networking audience, thereby raising your profile. I attend one or two of these breakfast meetings every week and just wish I had the time to do more. If your budget just will not stretch then the 4N online forum is the best I’ve seen, and will certainly work for you if you put in the time to contribute and read what others are doing and have to say.

With this type of networking you will not only get to market your own business, but you will also meet many who can help you set up, from business cards to marketing consultants, and all in the friendliest of atmospheres. And talking of business cards…

Business Cards and Letterheads

Start-up businesses still need this stuff. Try to avoid very cheap or free business cards. They tend to look very cheap or free. Often they’re printed on flimsy card and are designed to show the world what a cheapskate you really are, so you’ll go out and spend money on decent ones. Think about how many cards you might need initially: probably about 50 until you have more people to give them to. Consider making your own, but follow this essential rule: USE DECENT CARD. I recommend 380 to 400 micron card, and my own cards were set up using Microsoft PowerPoint. Cards should of course carry your telephone number(s), email address, website and of course your Twitter handle. Yes, that’s right, your Twitter username, as clients and contacts can track you online and you can provide them with real-time interaction, that little extra when it comes to customer service. Always leave the back of your cards plain, as you’ll find people like to write on the back. I did all this with my first cards and was extremely proud of the results. Having cut 50 of them I noticed that the one thing missing and omitted from the above was my own name, despite the fact that two family members looked at the card before I did all the cutting! The second batch was much better. Enough blank card for 600 business cards cost me £11.50. Bargain!

Decent letterheads and compliment slips can be produced using Microsoft Word and stored as a template. If you don’t like or have Microsoft products then download OpenOffice 3, which is open-source software and therefore free. It does everything the Office suite does, and in some cases does it better. As with the cards, use the best paper you can afford, rather than the usual copy paper we all generally use.

Recruitment Agencies

Ahhh… Recruitment Agents. When times are good for recruitment agents they are often bad for us. A lot of agents I’ve dealt with lack imagination and are therefore incapable of lateral thought. When there is plenty of movement in the job market they often default to job-filling mode and if you lack that single qualification from your CV you won’t even be presented for a job, whether or not you’ve been doing it for the last ten years. However, there are one or two recruitment agents who know their stuff. Ask me and I’ll tell you who, because I’ve met them. How are they useful to a start-up business? Well, they can introduce you to other people.

In my case I’ve found two agents who will refer me to IFAs in return for a cut (introducer’s fee) of any payment I end up getting from them. Another agent is being very pro-active and introducing me to his own database of IFAs, most of whom he’s in regular contact with, and is actively cold calling on my behalf, a job I hate but he loves.

As you can see, it’s possible to do a lot on the marketing front with very little outlay. I’m not VAT registered yet, so the cost of everything so far to me has been around £280, which includes full network membership and everything else I’ve talked about. If you’re VAT registered then you can reduce that to under £245. Now THAT’S money well spent!

Following the announcement there was a sort of panic amongst the membership. People talked about tears, losing meaning to their life, being in a daze. It was a bit like the aftermath of 9/11, or as we English say, 11/9. I make this comparison not through a lack of respect for the victims of that terrible day, but because that’s how it was starting to read.

Well, nobody died, and the forum continues to this day. One or two enterprising members went off to form their own forums, while others looked around for viable alternatives. I was one of the latter. Now I belong to seven forums, posting on each as I find something of interest. This is the norm amongst pipe smokers, to spread themselves around, meet new people and make their expertise available to as many newcomers to the brotherhood as they can.

For anyone interested in reading more on each of these forums the addresses for the four best are here:

http://grayfoxonline.com/forums/
http://tampandpuff.com
http://www.pipesmokerforum.com/
http://pipechat.netne.net/index.php

To start with I’m predominantly an English and Balkan smoker, so that’s where I’m coming from. That said, I knew I needed to overcome my fear of being bitten by VA’s, and to be honest the tin design sold this to me. I am a simple soul.

On opening the tin I was hit predominantly by the smell of uncooked Christmas cake, a rich plummy odour. The ketchup smell was also there but expected, and I know it has no bearing on the smoke whatsoever. The flakes themselves were dark, rich, and had a rubbery feel, moist as they were. Being fairly new at contemplating the tobacco itself, rather than the pipe I smoke it in, I was surprised not to see any trace of bright colours, something I found reassuring as a man with VA phobia.

I know that flakes can be a problem, and I prefer dryer baccy, so I gave it 30 minutes before rubbing out and packing a small Kaywoodie Zulu fairly solidly. I then sprinkled some of the “dust” on top as kindling.

I light using the “5,3,1″ method, ensuring a deep overall burn, and settled down with some trepidation, praying my tongue would survive this pure Virginia experience.

It did.

Not only that, but I was rewarded with a long, cool smoke, free of any bite. I put this down to the triple ageing and stoving. As always the second half of the bowl produced the most satisfying flavours. The smoke is white and billowy, and unlike many other reviewers I had no trouble keeping it lit, mainly I think due to frequent and gentle tamping, and that good initial light.

This is a great introduction for a new VA smoker, which surprises me as it has the feel of a “high end” tobacco, which I would have initially imagined would be fairly temperamental, as most pedigrees are. I am pleased to say this has been an outstanding introduction for me to the world of VAs, and has given me the confidence to approach VAs as a regular part of my smoking experiences. Highly, highly recommended.

On checking my bank statement this morning I noticed that no charge had been made for either. I emailed Rich and received the following reply:

Hi Paul,

Let’s make one thing clear, you will NEVER be under charged by me!!!

Seriously, I did add the tobaccos you asked for and had no intention of charging you for them. They are “on me”.

It’s the least I can do for a good customer like you.

Enjoy, and thank you for your honesty.

Rich Gottlieb

http://www.4noggins.com

It’s been a shitty weekend, having received a lifetime ban from SF yesterday, so my faith in the community is fully restored. I hope Rich will forgive me for posting this, and it would be a BAD THING for everyone to put in late orders to see what happens, but what a retailer.

Read about the ban here

Who he?

A baccyflap is a piece of Bakelite, brought out during the Art Deco period in the 1930′s, used exclusively for carrying around tobacco. Pipesmokers can load up a days worth of baccy in this airtight container, and it fits neatly in a trouser pocket. You can purchase one online from Decoworld for $150. I got mine in mint condition for £1.20 on ebay. It pays to shop around.

(Out of respect for Ron, to whom I wish no ill)

Recently I had a little set to with a couple of the moderators on Smokers Forum. The background is that recently the owner of the site decided to fold it due to the intense aggravation he was getting behind the scenes. Someone new (Art) took over the running of the site, but in the ensuing panic amongst some members, little bits of discussion emerged, and feelings that the bickering and power-hungriness of the mods were somehow contributory began to surface.

I was one of those who discussed those concerns on two other fora to which I belong. They were discussed elsewhere because freedom of speech  is stifled on Smokers Forums, and other than here there is no other platform I can use.

I returned to SF and started to read a thread which I genuinely felt needed a response and what follows is the result. It also reveals the blind prejudices involved with some of the posters, their fanatical support for the forum, and the lengths they will go to in order to lean on anyone with a constructive word to say. Four moderators got involved in this thread until Art closed it down, then deleted the entire thing to conceal the evidence. But not before I’d copied it.

The following morning I tried to log back into my account and read the following:

vBulletin Message You have been banned for the following reason:
No reason was specified.
Date the ban will be lifted: Never

Below is the entire “Dreaming” post from SF, and at the end a Private Message which I received from NIgel, the first Moderator on the thread:

Read on my brothers, read on…

#1 Report Post

Dreaming?  mrtalkradio – Member

Could go on for days with this one, I’ll try and keep it short.

I was reading the post on “darkest days.” Not wanting to divert the original thread I needed to start this one because of it’s inspiration. So thank you.

It it purely evident we, well the majority of us would have gone back to our prior lifestyle if SF closed. I surely would have. Participating in online communities is something that I can not seem to have interest in at all. SF is surely unique in all aspects, attracts unique individuals and I feel the most intellectual of all.

Surviving the “closing,” proves pipe smokers are alive and well and are not going anywhere. Not sure if you all can grasp the enormity of the forum continuing forward.

There are 100′s of on-line retailers and still a good number of B&M’s out there.

It is 2009, time for the Pipe’s and Tobacco Metropolis. It needs to be built. It should be 25,000 sq feet. It should have shipping docks and a massive warehouse. Advertised heavily and without compromise. It could employee 50 to 100 employees.

The Home Depot for pipe smokers. It surely is time.

It could become a reality, or just another dream that goes up in pipe smoke.

Stay tuned.

__________________

If the wind will not serve, take to the oars!

mrtalkradio

#2 Report Post

May 15, 2009, 11:21 AM

Re: Dreaming? ruraldean – Member

With all due respect I think you over estimate the importance of a single forum, no matter how large it is. When the panic set in the other day the main thought expressed on this site was “Where do we go next?”, and at least one other forum has seen it’s membership double in the last few days.

In the unfortunate event that SF should ever close I believe the vast majority of pipe smokers who use it would simply relocate to another, existing forum and continue there.

Having been here a couple of years more than you I can remember a large number of names who have disappeared, only to re-emerge elsewhere later on. The community of pipe smokers exists outside of these forum walls and the forum membership changes all the time. It would be wrong to think that SF is the only forum of value, and certainly wrong to consider that it alone attracts members of superior intellect.

Just an opinion…

__________________

http://ruraldean.wordpress.com

Member of the Internationally Acclaimed “Old Codger Society”

May 15, 2009, 11:35 AM

Re: Dreaming? Nigel – Moderator – Jumping In, Both Boots Swinging

Nobody is suggesting that SF is the only forum, to some people it is the only forum for them. Some members like to do the rounds and visit all the other boards. Like all clubs and forums anywhere, members come and members go, some move on for personal reasons, some move on because they decide SF is not for them and find pastures new. My gripe is with members from here who go off elsewhere to bitch about SF but yet continue their membership here. If you don’t like SF don’t stay here, no-one is forcing you but with over 2000 members we must be getting something right.

Quote:

It would be wrong to think that SF is the only forum of value, and certainly wrong to consider that it alone attracts members of superior intellect.

Unfortunately like most forums SF has the occasional troublemaker lurking around putting on a front for the members here but all the time sneering in a condescending manner ready at a moments notice to stick the knife in. It’s called being two faced, for any who feel this way why not stand up and be counted. Tell it like it is instead of hiding behind a respectable facade. Like I said above if you don’t SF’s guidelines and general atmosphere, the door is open, please leave by it and let those of us who like it here get on with enjoying the place.

NB. the above is a general note not an attack at any one member.

__________________

Regards

Nigel

Member of the Internationally Acclaimed “Old Codger Society”

Re: Dreaming? ruraldean – Member

Quote:

Originally Posted by Nigel View Post

Nobody is suggesting that SF is the only forum, to some people it is the only forum for them. Some members like to do the rounds and visit all the other boards. Like all clubs and forums anywhere, members come and members go, some move on for personal reasons, some move on because they decide SF is not for them and find pastures new. My gripe is with members from here who go off elsewhere to bitch about SF but yet continue their membership here. If you don’t like SF don’t stay here, no-one is forcing you but with over 2000 members we must be getting something right.

An unusual and overly defensive reply, and I’m not sure who the “you” in the last sentence is aimed at. The original poster seemed to indicate that he thought the continuation of SF equated to the continuation of pipe smoking:

“Surviving the “closing,” proves pipe smokers are alive and well and are not going anywhere. Not sure if you all can grasp the enormity of the forum continuing forward.”

That is what I was aiming to correct. Nor did I indicate an interest to you or anyone else here that I don’t like it here. You may want to re-word your post to make it sound less like a personal attack, or perhaps be a little less vague if it is. But you’re certainly raising points not contained in either of the first two posts.

I see you’ve added more to your post. If by highlighting the latter part of the quote you’re suggesting that members here ARE of superior intellect, then I’d like to know your justification for that. I also see your note at the end. Why use this thread to make an attack on a bunch of people you’ve not identified, and which is entirely out of context with the first post and my answer to it?

__________________

http://ruraldean.wordpress.com

Member of the Internationally Acclaimed “Old Codger Society”

#5 Report Post

OldMay 15, 2009, 12:09 PM

Re: Dreaming? Nigel – Moderator

Quote:

and I’m not sure who the “you” in the last sentence is aimed at

Which is why I added the note benne at the end. Perhaps it is overly defensive, given the recent circumstances that is not unusual. My response was to your comment that it was insinuated in the OP that SF was the only forum of note on the internet.

I did go off on a tangent but I stand by my comments.

__________________

Regards

Nigel

Member of the Internationally Acclaimed “Old Codger Society”

#6 Report Post

OldMay 15, 2009, 12:26 PM

Re: Dreaming? Nancy – Moderator

My understanding of the use of the word “you” here would be in the general sense, such as “If you prefer Va’s to English blends, you may want to try McC’s 5100″ or, as my own Mom was wont to say “If you don’t like it, lump it!” I’m sure she didn’t mean to put anyone on the defensive. [Smiley2]

__________________

Nancy [sunny]

#7 Report Post

OldMay 15, 2009, 12:27 PM

Re: Dreaming? Pipestud – Member

I’ve personally been involved in several pipe smoker’s forums over the years. Some have come and gone. Some are still around and very active and some are still around and barely breathing. The “flavor” varies and its always fun for me feel the uniqueness of each group.

The appeal of SF to me, is the variety of the membership and the way the group is like a local pipe club. The high end pipe and vintage tobacco collectors mix and mingle with the corncob, OTC tobacco folks with respect. We have busy doctors and unemployed blue collars chatting with each other.

Nope, the death of SF would not be the end of the pipe smoking world as we know it. But, I sure relish the thought of knowing that God willing, I’ll be hanging around here with you fine folks a wee bit longer.

Best,

Pipestud

#8 Report Post

OldMay 15, 2009, 12:36 PM

Re: Dreaming? Peps1 – Member

I think for the majority of members here SF is the main forum they use, but SF is a organic entity that changes over time, Iv only been here a couple of years but have seen alot of change, and recent events just illustrates how dramatically thing can shift in the space of day….to the point the forum is under new management.

I personally love SF, and have had such a amazing education here, not just in pipe smoking but also talking to cultural and age groups that i just wouldn’t converse with in the real world.

But if SF did shut-down I think the vast majority of members world go onto to join or start other forums (in fact some members that will remain nameless when out and started forum as soon as the news broke that SF could shut [Smiley9] ) and this is the true legacy of SF, members soon keen to keep a community together that they can see past the URLs, HTML, PHP, MySQL databaces and see the importance of the people behind the site, the users.

__________________

peps1

#9 Report Post

Re: Dreaming? ruraldean – Member

Quote:

Originally Posted by Nigel View Post

Which is why I added the note benne at the end. Perhaps it is overly defensive, given the recent circumstances that is not unusual. My response was to your comment that it was insinuated in the OP that SF was the only forum of note on the internet.

I did go off on a tangent but I stand by my comments.

I felt that he was indeed saying that, and I’m struggling to extract any other meaning form these words:

“It it purely evident we, well the majority of us would have gone back to our prior lifestyle if SF closed. I surely would have. Participating in online communities is something that I can not seem to have interest in at all. SF is surely unique in all aspects, attracts unique individuals and I feel the most intellectual of all.”

He may be right, but let’s not get jumped on by moderators every time anyone attempts a discussion. You may stand by your statement, but what has this got to do with either the opening thread, or my answer? I’m attempting to say that pipe smokers will endure, with or without SF. Nothing more:

“Unfortunately like most forums SF has the occasional troublemaker lurking around putting on a front for the members here but all the time sneering in a condescending manner ready at a moments notice to stick the knife in. It’s called being two faced, for any who feel this way why not stand up and be counted. Tell it like it is instead of hiding behind a respectable facade. Like I said above if you don’t SF’s guidelines and general atmosphere, the door is open, please leave by it and let those of us who like it here get on with enjoying the place”

YOU should avoid being two-faced. Name the troublemakers lurking and waiting to stick the knife in. Don’t insinuate. And by the way, those who DO stand up and be counted often find themselves cast into the outer darkness without explanation, so it’s not surprising that people are cautious about their feelings.

__________________

http://ruraldean.wordpress.com

Member of the Internationally Acclaimed “Old Codger Society”

#10 Report Post

OldMay 15, 2009, 12:46 PM

Re: Dreaming? Peps1 – Member

pulls up a seat and some popcorn. [006]

__________________

peps1

OldMay 15, 2009, 12:56 PM

Re: Dreaming? Old Timer – Member

If SF ever does close I agree-most will go to another forum. On a personal opinion note, I’ve looked at some of the other forums over the past week and concluded if SF closes I’ll stop going to any forum.

My life has been spent fixing all kinds of people problems. When I relax I want conversation not vitriol. I like a good natured argument: that’s where strongly held opinions are tested.

The problem with places like this is the obvious lack of face to face interaction. I can say “hello” to someone at the shop and they know to stay away for a bit because I’m in a dark mood or they may start in with the jibes and jabs. We can’t do that here. There’s no real way to let folks know how happy, distressed or angry we are without going a bit overboard with words.

SF is the only place I’ve seen that gives me a comfort zone. If it folds in the future I’m back to books, hiking and the computer will be dark for many hours a day.

__________________

Member of the Internationally Acclaimed “Old Codger Society”

“Mongo just pawn in the game of life!”

Old Timer

#12 Report Post

OldMay 15, 2009, 12:58 PM

Re: Dreaming? ruraldean – Member

Quote:

Originally Posted by peps1 View Post

pulls up a seat and some popcorn. [006]

Noooooooooo… I’ve said my bit. where’s mrtalkradio gone? He started all this… [Smiley2]

Apologies to mrtalkradio by the way. I hadn’t intended this to veer so far away from the first post and I deplore hi-jacking but will defend my position.

__________________

http://ruraldean.wordpress.com

Member of the Internationally Acclaimed “Old Codger Society”

#13 Report Post

OldMay 15, 2009, 12:58 PM

Re: Dreaming? Nigel – Moderator

Quote:

YOU should avoid being two-faced. Name the troublemakers lurking and waiting to stick the knife in. Don’t insinuate. And by the way, those who DO stand up and be counted often find themselves cast into the outer darkness without explanation, so it’s not surprising that people are cautious about their feelings.

I am not getting into a slanging match on open forum. SF has a set of guidelines which everyone agrees to when they sign up. If anyone has a problem with them, they don’t have to sign up. Stick to those guidelines and their time at SF will be a pleasurable one. At the end of the day SF is a privately owned forum, the forum owner decides the rules and it is his choice who he admits or denies entry to.

This is my last post on the matter.

__________________

Regards

Nigel

Member of the Internationally Acclaimed “Old Codger Society”

#14 Report Post

OldMay 15, 2009, 01:00 PM

Re: Dreaming? Peterwd – Moderator

Being a “Codger”, I am more used to Clubs i.e. Cars/Bikes etc.

The motto I follow is “The Right Crowd and No Crowding”, this derives from 1930′s Brooklands.

http://www.autocar.co.uk/blogs/racin…a-classic.aspx

I like to think the our Forum offers this.

__________________

Lang May Yer Lumb Reek. Regards Peter W-D

Founder of the Internationally Acclaimed “Old Codger Society” & The “Peterson’s Pipe Smokers Forum”

#15 Report Post

OldMay 15, 2009, 01:17 PM

Re: Dreaming? ruraldean – Member

Quote:

Originally Posted by Nigel View Post

I am not getting into a slanging match on open forum…This is my last post on the matter.

For the record, I was not asking for a slanging match; I was answering mrtalkradio’s opening post. I’m sure that when he returns he’ll be able to defend his position admirably, and without us falling out.

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#16 Report Post

OldMay 15, 2009, 01:28 PM

Re: Dreaming? Ed Anderson – Moderator

Quote:

Originally Posted by ruraldean View Post

…He may be right, but let’s not get jumped on by moderators every time anyone attempts a discussion. You may stand by your statement, but what has this got to do with either the opening thread, or my answer? I’m attempting to say that pipe smokers will endure, with or without SF. Nothing more:

YOUR idea of a discussuion is to stir the pot. [Smiley2]

Quote:

Originally Posted by ruraldean View Post

YOU should avoid being two-faced. Name the troublemakers lurking and waiting to stick the knife in. Don’t insinuate. And by the way, those who DO stand up and be counted often find themselves cast into the outer darkness without explanation, so it’s not surprising that people are cautious about their feelings.

Nigel is NOT being two faced. I think any who read his words will know just who he’s talking about. [Smiley2]

You’re going to trash talk the SF Mods over on that other forum no matter what we say or do so just go do it and enjoy yourself.

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Ed Anderson

A ‘Common Sewer’ of Fine Pipes and Tobaccos and still not a Snob.

Also a member of the Corn Cob Snob Society!

#17 Report Post

OldMay 15, 2009, 01:31 PM

Re: Dreaming? Old Timer – Moderator

But to digress: 25,00 square feet would just about be right…but would you allow big screen TV’s? Not in mine…books, heavy well worn leather chairs positioned in communities of 4 or 5. Jazz in the background-so softly you’d have to stop and concentrate to determine the piece…tea, coffee

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#18 Report Post

OldMay 15, 2009, 01:36 PM

Re: Dreaming? Onlyinmoderation – Member

Quote:

…to determine the piece…tea, coffee

…and perhaps an ale tap in the side room. [Smiley14]

Great, no work will be done today [Smiley13] …another Friday at the office spent daydreaming, my mind far far away. [Smiley4] LOVE IT!

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onlyinmoderation

#19 Report Post

May 15, 2009, 01:38 PM

Re: Dreaming? Nancy – Moderator

Quote:

Originally Posted by mrtalkradio View Post

There are 100′s of on-line retailers and still a good number of B&M’s out there.

It is 2009, time for the Pipe’s and Tobacco Metropolis. It needs to be built. It should be 25,000 sq feet. It should have shipping docks and a massive warehouse. Advertised heavily and without compromise. It could employee 50 to 100 employees.

The Home Depot for pipe smokers. It surely is time.

It could become a reality, or just another dream that goes up in pipe smoke.

Stay tuned.

To get back to the original idea posted here, under the title “Dreaming,” I’d like to put in my own two cents. Why not build this Metropolis in Northern Michigan? [Smiley2] The people are friendly, the air is pure, and we could use a boost in the local economy. I guess I really would be dreaming to think that those in power in this state would ever allow such a thing! [Smiley3] Still, one can dream. [Smiley14]

Good idea though. You get my vote mrtalkradio. [Smiley20]

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Nancy [sunny]

OldMay 15, 2009, 01:39 PM

Re: Dreaming? Billiard – Member

Gonna have to have coffee and tea too. The high end coffees and teas as well as the discount brand for me [Smiley1]

Also, since our demographic leans towards older men: lots of bathrooms! [Smiley1] lol

Re: Dreaming?  Old Timer – Member

Sister-I like the Northern Michigan idea…nice warm summers, beautiful Fall and Spring…good cold winters. Lakes, woods…small towns and big (if you like).

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#22 Report Post

OldMay 15, 2009, 01:43 PM

Re: Dreaming? ruraldean – Member

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ed Anderson View Post

YOUR idea of a discussuion is to stir the pot. [Smiley2]

How? What did I do that requires the weight of two moderators wading in?

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ed Anderson View Post

Nigel is NOT being two faced. I think any who read his words will know just who he’s talking about. [Smiley2]

You’re going to trash talk the SF Mods over on that other forum no matter what we say or do so just go do it and enjoy yourself.

Well thanks Ed. Your permission is appreciated. What forum are you referring to, or do the mods watch them all?

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#23 Report Post

OldMay 15, 2009, 01:46 PM

Re: Dreaming? Nancy – Member

Hey guys, let’s all take a breather here. Picture the Metropolis..light up your pipe and live in peace. Be nice. [Smiley4]

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#24 Report Post

OldMay 15, 2009, 01:51 PM

Re: Dreaming? ruraldean – Member

Breathing Nancy, breathing…

Better now. [Smiley2]

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#25 Report Post

UnreadMay 15, 2009, 01:53 PM

Re: Dreaming? Tiltjlp – Member

Interesting thread even without the hissing and chest pounding. I don’t think I’d care for a Pipe’s and Tobacco Metropolis myself, I much prefer checking out several e-tailers and comparing inventory and prices before placing my order.

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My Blends @ www.4noggins.com

#26 Report Post

OldMay 15, 2009, 01:59 PM

Re: Dreaming? – Old Timer – Member

Yessir… a BIG operation with free samples galore. The best prices anywhere…tips on blending..matching pipes to tobaccos and lots and lots of personal interaction…AND single malts and the best bourbons!!!

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#27 Report Post

OldMay 15, 2009, 02:06 PM

Re: Dreaming?  ABSSiegal – Member
Quote:

Originally Posted by Pipestud View Post

I’ve personally been involved in several pipe smoker’s forums over the years. Some have come and gone. Some are still around and very active and some are still around and barely breathing. The “flavor” varies and its always fun for me feel the uniqueness of each group.

The appeal of SF to me, is the variety of the membership and the way the group is like a local pipe club. The high end pipe and vintage tobacco collectors mix and mingle with the corncob, OTC tobacco folks with respect. We have busy doctors and unemployed blue collars chatting with each other.

Nope, the death of SF would not be the end of the pipe smoking world as we know it. But, I sure relish the thought of knowing that God willing, I’ll be hanging around here with you fine folks a wee bit longer.

Best,

Pipestud

Steve has nailed it! Well said!!!! [Smiley20]

Alan

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#28 Report Post

OldMay 15, 2009, 02:32 PM

Re: Dreaming? Buggs – Member

Quite a start for the early am, not bad though.

Don’t think I would care for the Mega Mart,reminds me of Lowes or Wal-Mart…I would like Michigan though ,BIG deer up there.

A personal note for me. I noticed the comment about some folks posting on other sites in an unflattering way,about folks on this site. Brings to mind a quote by George Washington.

“A man’s character is determined by how he acts when no one is looking” [Smiley20]

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#29 Report Post

OldMay 15, 2009, 02:32 PM

Re: Dreaming? Nancy – Moderator

Quote:

Originally Posted by ruraldean View Post

What forum are you referring to, or do the mods watch them all?

Hey wow- ouch. [Smiley13] I have just taken a look at another forum out of curiosity (who wouldn’t after all this hullaballoo?) and I can sure see what the issue here is! Seems there are some who are very upset with the way things are being run here, and things are being said about the SF mods that are pretty unkind. Ouch! I think I’ll not visit again, so as not to get my feelings hurt! [Smiley19]

Keeping my head down, and just trying to keep the peace around here! [puffy]

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Nancy [sunny]

#30 Report Post

OldMay 15, 2009, 02:55 PM

Re: Dreaming? Old Timer – Member

BUGGS: Sir, you have just nailed it! I’d forgotten some advice given to me by the man I have most respected in my life: my Father. He told me that when I was just starting the teen years. Sometimes I forgot but I always remembered eventually.

He not only said it, more importantly to me he lived it and he was a salesman!!

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Old Timer

#31 Report Post

UnreadMay 15, 2009, 03:05 PM

Re: Dreaming? ruraldean – Member

Quote:

Originally Posted by NLH View Post

Hey wow- ouch. [Smiley13] I have just taken a look at another forum out of curiosity (who wouldn’t after all this hullaballoo?) and I can sure see what the issue here is! Seems there are some who are very upset with the way things are being run here, and things are being said about the SF mods that are pretty unkind. Ouch! I think I’ll not visit again, so as not to get my feelings hurt! [Smiley19]

Keeping my head down, and just trying to keep the peace around here! [puffy]

Hey Nancy. What are the chances of you picking another forum totally at random and finding someone who is saying the things that are being reported? Slim eh?

And up until then you were doing a great job of keeping the peace. [Smiley2]

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Re: Dreaming? Nancy – Moderator

Quote:

Originally Posted by ruraldean View Post

Hey Nancy. What are the chances of you picking another forum totally at random and finding someone who is saying the things that are being reported? Slim eh?

I didn’t pick it at random. I asked. I don’t have time to go searching for such a thing, and why would I? [000]

What are you implying? [000]

And why are you saying the “things that are being reported?” [000]

Personally, I don’t come here for this kind of silliness. I have children, I get plenty of it at home. [Smiley2]

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Nancy [sunny]

#33 Report Post

OldMay 15, 2009, 03:15 PM

Re: Dreaming? Peps1 – Member

“Criticism may not be agreeable, but it is necessary. It fulfils the same function as pain in the human body. It calls attention to an unhealthy state of things.” – Winston Churchill

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#34 Report Post

Re: Dreaming? Old Timer – Member and Shit Disturber

Simple question: Why would anything be said elsewhere by anyone?

What is the sought after result in anyone doing that? I have not been to other sites-except a quick peek at TobaccoReviews.com yesterday- lasted about 30 seconds.

So other than what has been said I really can’t figure out what one would hope to gain by posting derogatory threads here or anywhere. Maybe it’s the old saw: I don’t ever get the respect I feel I deserve so I won’t give anyone the respect they deserve. Or maybe it’s more of a desire to be a person who lives to stir the pot..unless there’s a stink in the air they ain’t happy….wonder which one…hmmmmmm

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#35 Report Post

OldMay 15, 2009, 03:27 PM

Re: Dreaming? ruraldean – Member

Quote:

Originally Posted by NLH View Post

I didn’t pick it at random. I asked. I don’t have time to go searching for such a thing, and why would I? [000]

Er…you just told us you did.

Quote:

Originally Posted by NLH View Post

What are you implying? [000]

That you knew or found out where to go to find what you were looking for, confirming that someone is keeping an eye on other forums for SF related stuff and reporting back.

Quote:

Originally Posted by NLH View Post

And why are you saying the “things that are being reported?” [000]

Because, as you’ve asked, a mod has advised me so in a PM.

And yes, it is all silly. [puffy]

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#36 Report Post

UnreadMay 15, 2009, 03:32 PM

Re: Dreaming? Felix – Member

Quote:

Originally Posted by mrtalkradio View Post

…It it purely evident we, well the majority of us would have gone back to our prior lifestyle if SF closed.

Not me. Good grief, SF is a fine resource but it isn’t the only game in town.

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Felix

#37 Report Post

UnreadMay 15, 2009, 03:36 PM

Re: Dreaming? ruraldean – Member

Quote:

Originally Posted by Old Timer View Post

Simple question: Why would anything be said elsewhere by anyone?

What is the sought after result in anyone doing that? I have not been to other sites-except a quick peek at TobaccoReviews.com yesterday- lasted about 30 seconds.

So other than what has been said I really can’t figure out what one would hope to gain by posting derogatory threads here or anywhere. Maybe it’s the old saw: I don’t ever get the respect I feel I deserve so I won’t give anyone the respect they deserve. Or maybe it’s more of a desire to be a person who lives to stir the pot..unless there’s a stink in the air they ain’t happy….wonder which one…hmmmmmm

Simple answer: Things are being said by two main groups of people: Ex-mods and people who have had run-ins with the existing mods. Some are still wondering why they’ve been banned as they’ve never received a word of explanation.

So, neither of your two categories.

I also find that there are a lot of people complaining or making sideways remarks about the way this thread is going, but have failed to realise that keeping quiet would let it all die down. I’m only answering questions here. So what was the point of your post Old Timer? To bring peace or perpetuation?

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Re: Dreaming? Nancy – Moderator – Still Not Getting It

I am confused. [Smiley13]

Quote:

Originally Posted by ruraldean View Post

Er…you just told us you did.

When?

That you knew or found out where to go to find what you were looking for, confirming that someone is keeping an eye on other forums for SF related stuff and reporting back.

There are several members here who are members of other forums as well. Are they not allowed to tell me what they have read, and where? It’s no big secret.

Because, as you’ve asked, a mod has advised me so in a PM.

I think I worded my question wrong. What I meant was, why are you bashing SF elsewhere and coming here to argue about it? [000]

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Nancy [sunny]

OldMay 15, 2009, 03:38 PM

Re: Dreaming? Buggs – Member – Long Distance Hero

IMO it is the cyber interface.Growing up on the streets of Philly. I found if you had strong opinions and choose to voice them, there could be some strong and some times ugly responses.Face to face encounters temper the coward and challange the brave. there are no consaquences for being a fool on the internet no one can reach out and punch your lights out. Although that tact never changed a persons opinion, it certainly did shut them up. [006]

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#40 Report Post

OldMay 15, 2009, 03:43 PM

Re: Dreaming? Peterwd – Moderator – Supporter of Violence

Quote:

Originally Posted by Buggs View Post

IMO it is the cyber interface.Growing up on the streets of Philly. I found if you had strong opinions and choose to voice them, there could be some strong and some times ugly responses.Face to face encounters temper the coward and challange the brave. there are no consaquences for being a fool on the internet no one can reach out and punch your lights out. Although that tact never changed a persons opinion, it certainly did shut them up. [006]

Well said Buggs,

the internet is full of would be Hero’s. [006]

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Lang May Yer Lumb Reek. Regards Peter W-D

Founder of the Internationally Acclaimed “Old Codger Society” & The “Peterson’s Pipe Smokers Forum”

Re: Dreaming? Old Timer – Member – “Me Too” Fan

BUGGS: I really like you man!

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#42 Report Post

UnreadMay 15, 2009, 03:53 PM

Re: Dreaming? ruraldean – Member

Quote:

Originally Posted by NLH View Post

I think I worded my question wrong. What I meant was, why are you bashing SF elsewhere and coming here to argue about it? [000]

Well, I’m not here to argue. But you have confirmed I’m being specifically watched, which should disturb any free-thinker.

My first post was to point out that anyone who feels that this forum contains the intellectual elite of the pipe smoking world is insulting members of other forums. I also felt that the recent wailing and gnashing of teeth was indicitive of people slightly losing perspective. SF is a great forum and a great acheivement by Ron. Nothing however is perfect and if the forum had closed people would have relocated and met up in different places. Or formed a new forum..

If anyone cares to re-read this thread objectively from the beginning they will find that my post in answer to mrtalkradio was entirely centred on his view that this forum and it’s members are unique. I wasn’t bashing the forum in any way.

Argument about my conduct either here or elsewhere was introduced in a post by Nigel. I have simply responded since then, as I am now.

Keep asking questions, or mumbling under your breath as some appear to be, and I will answer. At least until my ability to do so is removed. However, I am not setting out to be disruptive, just challenging.

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#43 Report Post

UnreadMay 15, 2009, 03:55 PM

Re: Dreaming? Peps1 – Member  – Providing Link to Shit Disturbing Post by Old Timer

Quote:

Originally Posted by Old Timer View Post

Maybe it’s the old saw: I don’t ever get the respect I feel I deserve so I won’t give anyone the respect they deserve. Or maybe it’s more of a desire to be a person who lives to stir the pot..unless there’s a stink in the air they ain’t happy….wonder which one…hmmmmmm

*cough cough* [Smiley2]link.

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#44 Report Post

UnreadMay 15, 2009, 03:57 PM

Re: Dreaming? Tiltjlp – Member

An old saying I remember from when I was a boy seems to apply here. “I might not always be right, but I’m never wrong.” Say whatever you want about me, just fix me a stack of sandwiches first.

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My Countdown Counting down to: 50 Years As A Piper

17 days 2 hours 58 minutes

tiltjlp

#45 Report Post

UnreadMay 15, 2009, 03:58 PM

Re: Dreaming? ABSSiegal – Member – Another “Me Too” Fan

Quote:

Originally Posted by Buggs View Post

Face to face encounters temper the coward and challange the brave. there are no consaquences for being a fool on the internet no one can reach out and punch your lights out. Although that tact never changed a persons opinion, it certainly did shut them up. [006]

Well said Buggs!!! [Smiley20]

Alan

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#46 Report Post

UnreadMay 15, 2009, 04:00 PM

Re: Dreaming? Peps1 – Member – Voice of Reason

It’s a sad day when so many well respected members in my eyes feel the need to advocate violence [Smiley19]

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#47 Report Post

UnreadMay 15, 2009, 04:01 PM

Re: Dreaming? ruraldean – Member

Quote:

Originally Posted by peterwd View Post

Well said Buggs,

the internet is full of would be Hero’s. [006]

How nice to see one of the mods supporting the notion that physical violence is a problem solver.

FWIW I’m not hiding behind the protection of great distance. Were I there in person then we’d be having the same discussion, although I’d be keeping an eye open for a quick left hand from your friend Buggs, or a subtle whack from Old Timer.

But enough of your schoolboy fighting talk. I was brought up in a place that makes Basra look like Disneyland so I’ve heard it all before. I’d rather discuss things than put anyone’s lights out.

You should be ashamed.

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Re: Dreaming? Art_A – Site Owner and Man With No Answers

This poor thread has been completely hijacked and is serving no one any good so it is now closed.

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Art_A

Private Message from Nigel – Moderator.

Off foum (sic)

I’m not continuing on open forum, for the sake of the forums and frankly I don’t have the time. To clarify, my first post was not a direct attack on you, did it go to far, maybe, did I read to much into your post, maybe but after PMs I received from some members it is little wonder.

Quote:

those who DO stand up and be counted often find themselves cast into the outer darkness without explanation, so it’s not surprising that people are cautious about their feelings.

What do members feel they have to stand up for? If they do not like the way the forum is run, why do they stay [000] There is another forum out there to fulfill their needs. I would not stay somewhere I didn’t like. I am happy for anyone to be a member provided they stick to the SF accepted norm.
If you look around the forums the majority of members are happy with how things are, we aren’t going to change a formula that works just to please the minority. I can’t understand why members who break rules feel they have to kick back against the team or cause problems for the team. Why can’t they just accept it and get on with it or move on.

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Nigel

My reply – unanswered.

Re: Off foum

Quote:

Originally Posted by Nigel

I’m not continuing on open forum, for the sake of the forums and frankly I don’t have the time. To clarify, my first post was not a direct attack on you, did it go to far, maybe, did I read to much into your post, maybe but after PMs I received from some members it is little wonder.

Firstly Nigel, there you go with the insinuations again. What PMs have you had that led you to read too much into my post I wonder? Perhaps you’d be man enough to be upfront about it? A number of people feel they may be being watched on other forums. Sounds like it might be true.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Nigel

I can’t understand why members who break rules feel they have to kick back against the team or cause problems for the team. Why can’t they just accept it and get on with it or move on.

Again, who are you referring to? Anyone who breaks the rules has probably been banned already, so won’t be around to kick back or cause problems for the team. If it’s a reference to me then tell me what rule I’ve broken, or how I’m “kicking back”. Is that how the mods view any difference of opinion? Will I end up being “silenced” for disagreeing with you?

My post came about because I needed to counter the first poster’s view that SF posters are intellectually superior to others. Rather than jumping on me, a moderator perhaps should have pointed out to him that this sort of elitist talk won’t endear him to anyone with friends elsewhere.

Cheers

Paul

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I’ve recently had a bit of a cull, giving some pipes to my noob pipe-smoking son, and thinning the herd considerably. Apart from my 1879 Peterson and a hand made Ronny Thuner, I have little that could be described as worth a great deal, and that’s the way I like it.

I have Petersons, Barlings, Stanwells, Bjarnes, etc. but possibly my best smokers are a Hardcastle billiard I refurbed to new, and a Dr Grabow Westbrook. Both look stunning, with beautiful grain and they smoke perfectly. I also own just one Dunhill Bruyere, which I’m about to sell because frankly I never smoke it, and I only keep it because I bought into the myth that everyone should have one. In fact it’s only ever been smoked twice, so make me an offer!

Why am I selling it? Because many of my other pipes smoke just as well, look just as good (if not better) and I don’t have to be nervous about them. Besides, who am I impressing? Most of the time I smoke I’m alone in my own space.

I’m removing myself from the snob aspect of piping and starting to enjoy it more as a result. I look after my pipes meticulously, regardless of cost or their perceived value. If I sell the Dunhill I might be able to afford a couple of decent Peterson’s which suits me just fine.

I will probably continue to accumulate pipes, but concentrate on recognised good smokers like Blakemars and (wait for it…) Big Bens, which I’ve always found do the job perfectly well. I’ll buy them new and spend less than £50 a time. I really need to build up tobacco stocks, just so I’m ready for the ban! And a pipe is just a way of enjoying the tobacco, which I’m sure we all forget from time to time.

I will always look at, and enjoy the real high-enders, so I’m not an anti, but as a smoker whose all time favourite style is any type of billiard, I don’t feel I need a Jules Verne Reverse-Bulldog Blowfish to enjoy my smoke.

On one occasion in particular, two whom I regularly encountered revealed that they smoked pipes. And they both kept the pipes in the right hand pocket of their suit jackets. Now this was before I’d taken up the briar, so I was intrigued whenever a comfort break was called, to see these two wander out onto the patio to partake of a quick puff.

What amazed me was what they pulled from their jackets – the filthiest, green-stemmed, crusty pieces of wood I’ve ever seen. Think bad ebay. When they’d had enough or been called back to the meeting the pipes would slip back into the jacket, where I suspected they stayed until the next event, uncleaned, unloved.

I cannot believe that they put them in their mouths. My own doctor (and the man who introduced me to pipe smoking) also smoked a horrible green thing stoked with Borkum Riff.

Many of you will have encountered similar pipe smokers, and probably in days of old, this was the norm.

However, things have changed. I liaise regularly with pipe smokers both at home and overseas. We all keep our pipes in immaculate order, with shiny bowls, stems and bits. We are, after all, OCD sufferers when it comes to our hobby.

So please don’t judge us all by those who don’t make the effort. They’re probably the same people you want want to stand next to in a supermarket queue on a hot day. Know what I mean?

It would seem that we are men and women who subscribe to a bygone age, born out of time, jaded with modern society. We miss the times when someone can ask a question at work and we can pull out a pipe to ponder before answering. When men wore hats and suits, and ties at home when relaxing. In England it would have been before jeans were imported, and people would dress up to go and get a paper.

Of course, our wives wouldn’t have had a career, other than providing a stable, well-maintained and loving home, and raising our children to be fine men and women. They would have put meals on the table and perhaps looked adoringly at us men as we sat, listening to the radio, engulfed in clouds of thick white smoke. Our job, in turn, was to provide financially for the whole family, and to help build that loving atmosphere.

I was born in 1955, so my childhood ran through the 60′s and onward, so I will have missed much of this as I grew up. Nor do I know, in this liberated age, just how well most women would react to the picture I’ve just painted. I’m sure many would feel glad we’ve moved on.

But I do know that a lot of us wish it was this way, even if the reality may have been different.

I like being out of this time. I like the ritual, the paraphernalia, the VAST range of tobaccos and shortish, straight billiards. I wear a wide-brimmed trilby (more like a fedora) and a suit to work. My shoes are polished. I have been referred to as a “throwback”, but also stopped in the street by a charity mugger (chugger) and told as I walked away from him that I was the coolest looking bloke he’d seen all day.

And I hadn’t given him any money.