The Sentimental Side of My Collection: My Favorite Cards (Pt. 2)

A few weeks back, I made a post about cards that mean a lot to me for various reasons, whether it be my faith, my family, etc. I have been promising a follow up post, which I have prepared after careful consideration. Without further ado, I present to you....

The Sentimental Side of My Collection: My Favorite Cards (Pt. 2)

I chose to highlight two cards, as I had done three previously. The two cards I chose, again, both mean a great deal to me, and I appreciate the opportunity to be able to share them and their unique stories with you.

1. 2004 Fleer InScribed "Names of The Game" Ted Williams GU Bat Card

Around January of 2004, I was sitting downstairs on my couch watching TV after school. I had come come from what I assume was a rigorous day of 2nd grade (only kidding), and I was enjoying my relaxation. My Dad usually got home from work around 4:30. It was usually the same routine: I'd sit downstairs, not even having to leave the couch to understand the everyday significance of the familiar jingling sound of keys hitting the wooden key rack. That meant Dad was home. This day, he came downstairs and leaned over the railing carrying a package. He walked over to me and handed me the yellow bubble mailer, telling me it was a Christmas gift he had bought online that the seller had failed to ship in time for Christmas morning. I opened it up, and inside was this card. Additionally, it held a Carl Yastrzemski GU Jersey card from the same set. But this...this was different. Having a piece of lumber held by the greatest hitter who ever lived in my hands? That  was and continues to be an indescribable feeling. My Dad, as well as my Mom, have always been so good to me and my siblings and they've always done a great job picking up gifts that they knew we'd like, especially when it came to baseball cards. This is easily one of the best Christmas gifts I've ever gotten.

2. Doug Mirabelli Self-Issued Autographed Card (Obtained IP)

When I was a little boy (I don't exactly remember when), I was staying at my Grandparent's house with my Mom and Dad. Every time I had a sleepover at my Nana and Papa's house, it was tradition for my Nana to make waffles for my family when we woke up. Don't ask me why, or how, but those Jiffy-batter waffles are the best waffles I've ever had. One morning, as I was sitting in my chair eating my waffles, my papa was reading the Patriot Ledger, his local newspaper, and told me about an advertisement for a local Chevrolet dealer that was holding free autograph signings with Red Sox catcher Doug Mirabelli. My Dad, my Papa, and I all went to the dealership, where I was able to meet Doug, take pictures with him, and even receive an autograph on a card which he provided. Until several years later, I didn't really understand that there was religious connection on the back of the card. Doug used the card as a form of praise and spreading the Gospel for God, as on the back he related his baseball career to his Faith.. To me, as a Catholic, that's something I have a great deal of respect and admiration for

I'll probably have another post like this in the near future, so stay tuned. 

If you have a story about a card that holds sentimental value to you or has a unique story, feel free to comment in the box below this post!