Bidding in a cigar Dutch Auction

Sorry, can't talk right now, gotta stay focused on the auction . . .

UPDATE: Yeah! Picked up 4 boxes of 10 at $25.10 via the auction.

JR Cigar Dutch Auction > DON DIEGO PRIVADA NO. 1
(Box of 10)
Dutch Auction Item #439

JR Price: $33.95
MSRP: $47.50
Starting Bid: $1.00
End Time: 09/02/2008 - 10:00 AM EST
Start Time: 08/29/2008 - 10:00 AM EST
No. of Bids: 165
Quantity Available: 100

Item Info:

Description
A classic Dominican cigar with a silky-smooth, almond-colored Connecticut Shade wrapper. Beautifully handrolled, these cigars have a creamy flavor that never bites, and a subtle finish with no aftertaste. An excellent cigar for those who prefer a milder smoking experience.

Quantity: 10
Origin: Dominican Republic
Length: 6.62
Ring: 43
Strength: Mild-Medium
Wrapper Color: Light Brown (N)
Wrapper Type: Connecticut Shade
Binder: Dominican Republic
Filler: DR/BRA/MEX
Shape: Parejo

This is a great everyday cigar, one of my favorites. Wish me luck!

All in One

I hadn't considered William F. Buckley, Jr. when I labeled my blog, "A promulgation of esoteric cogitations attempting to avoid platitudinous ponderousities regarding public policy, religion, politics, beer, and cigars - in no particular order." That said, it most certainly fits the Bill. I also hadn't considered the impact his writings had on my thinking in as much as I long ago allowed my subscription to National Review to lapse and Firing Line ceased broadcasting.

I do, however, admire and aspire to several traits from the blog label favored by Mr. Buckley. An avocation toward shaping public policy - generally conservative, but with a twist from time to time. A lifelong Catholic and a nascent apologist. Active in politics (Republican); most often from the sidelines; though he did unsuccessfully seek the New York mayoralty once. An aficionado of fine spirits (theological and otherwise) and cigars. Though after the passing of his wife from emphysema after years of cigarette smoking, Buckley confessed that given the power, he'd outlaw smoking.

One of our nations most outstanding educational institutions, Hillsdale College, has created a website with the complete writings of William F. Buckley, Jr. and The Hoover Institution has archived the Firing Line television show collection. WFB will be missed, but his intelligence, facetiousness, and catechizing remains.

Réquiem ætérnam dona ei Dómine; et lux perpétua lúceat ei. Requiéscat in pace. Amen.

Taking the plunge

I know I'm late to the blogosphere. I was once considered an early adopter of technology and web-based communication. Alais, I fear I'm aging and obviously slowing down.

I don't quite know yet what use this blog will serve, if any. Most likely, I'll just post random items of personal interest. If you happen to share any of my interests, I'd welcome discussion.

OK, on to my inaugural post.

My daily cigar is an exceptional, mild Dominican - Don Diego. Generally a Longsdale or Privada No. 1 is my size of choice. Today however, I'm enjoying an equally satisfying Santa Damiana No. 700. It too is a mild Dominican. Though I've enjoyed cigar smoking for over 20 years, I prefer milder, generally not too expensive smokes to the super premium or stronger brands.

For me a cigar is an opportunity to relax. It has a calming quality for me. I typically smoke when alone in my car or my office. I try to be mindful of others, but it is an activity I will not give up. I believe it was Twain who said, "If there are no cigars in heaven, I shall not go."

Given the choice, I wouldn't go as far as Twain, but I chose to believe the best cigars are reserved for heaven's humidor.