I wanted to share my strategy for foiling restrictions on bidding from otherwise loveable partners. I say 'otherwise loveable' because cigar restrictions push the envelope, in my opinion, but, then again, she thinks I take the whole smoking thing way too seriously...whatever.
Basic strategy: explain the importance of aging. This may confuse her, but that is fine...that means she'll likely nod and pretend to understand. We all do that when we are embarrassed that we can't follow what someone is saying. Make the point that there is no sense in smoking a cigar if it is less than 'x' years old after purchase (x stands for however many years you need to justify). Then point out that, with your purchases, you are merely building to the point where every cigar you smoke is x-years aged. "Babygirl, you know that takes a LONG time. Just be patient. We're getting started in this, building up to the good part. Someday we'll look back and be thankful we started this!"
Advantages:
1. You constantly buy in order to keep up the 'x-years until smoking' supply. The supply needs constant replenishing, even though you won't theoretically be smoking the cigar for a year or two.
2. It is actually very rational and actually true. That way you are not lying to her (in case you care about such things).
3. The x can be changed as you go along..."babycakes, really, it is wasting to smoke this cigar when it is only aged a year. It needs another year, at least. It's like I'm throwing away our money. You don't want that, do you?" Self-perpetuating. You can always say "I am still learning about how to get the most for our money." Admitting your fallibility and flounderings can, when phrased correctly, make you adorable and lovingly pitiable. Sure, in doing this you swallow some pride, but, hey, smokes and more smokes are at stake.
4. Liberal use of the 'we' makes her feel included in a 'joint project,' which is always to your advantage, methinks.
If that fails, go the high school route: get her drunk, then break the news.
Just my strategy. It works for now, so I thought I'd share.
John
