Advice needed on 5.6

[notirishyet]

Hi guys,

I need an advice related to when should I apply better, regarding 5.6 question of the form.

According to the calculator I'll be able to apply in November this year.
However I have two years (NOT last year) where I was away for about 7 weeks each (in total, not a single trip). I read some posts on this forum saying that they will subtract these periods of my absence from my residence and reject my application. If that is true I'll only be able to apply 3-4 month later.

My questions are:
1. Is there a chance that they will actually close eyes on this 6 week thing ? Given the rest of my record is perfect?
2. What's the downside for me taking the risk and applying in November, as soon as I satisfy the calculator? Will they notify me quick if they reject my application due to that rule? If it's just losing ~200 EUR I'm ok to take that chance. As long as I don't lose more time in the end..
3. Can I stop caring about my absence once I submit my application?

Sorry if it's been answered already. I would appreciate links then.

It's just I have a girlfriend in my origin country and the fact that I can't visit her often enough drives me crazy..