Tobacco isn't easy... You might be able to grow for a year or two but if you ever get tobacco mosaic virus your tobacco growing efforts are dead in the water without chemicals Tomatoes carry this virus as well. I'm a very experienced gardener and I've been hesitant to try it.
I have some puzzles for the grandkids, I just picked up the card game Deer in the Headlights, green coffee beans for the wife's coffee, and I definitely agree with have a few good books on hand.
I took pictures and artwork here and there throughout my world. When I open the bathroom cabinet I am greeted by a picture of my Mom and Aunts smiling back at me. I have little art projects that the children did in my desk at work or in files. So a photo, note or little art project would be a comfort item to me. And a nice cup of tea also helps.
The problem is it is two years (or more) before use. First year you grow it, wait 18-24 months to cure, then it is fit to smoke. You might also try toasting it after it is cured too.
But, if you keep up a steady supply, you have year two ready to go as year four is hitting the rack. That said, I understand your pain on the logic of it. No easy way around sedimentary survival.
No, do a new crop every year. It means a delay for the first crop only. The cure time is the same, but there is no reason to wait for it to fully cure before starting the next batch.