[the 'stache]

Ok, you guys are breaking out some big guns now.

Ian, how did I not know you were collecting DSs? And autographed ones, no less? That's a pretty cool idea. The cards are just gorgeous. SOmewhat reminiscient of the Goudey cards, but with very detailed backgrounds, which I like. You need to send me some links, my friend!

Matt-I might just have to snag one of those pictures for my desktop. A little ncentive to keep hitting the set. I have a long, long way to go, and since I know there are a lot of cards from other sets I will be adding, I know it's going to be a marathon. But aren't those cards beautiful. Did you giggle like a kid when you had them all fanned out like that? They're not even my cards, and I admit I had a bit of an excited chuckle. I really love seeing stuff like this.

Chris-fantastic! Those two, especially the Cobb on shoulder, have some really nice eye appeal. Damn, you are making me want to start my Hall of Fame chase now! Congratulations!!

Dan-it's absolutely your call, but if you wash that Clarke, you've got nerves of steel. I'd be absolutely scared to death soaking a CJ, especially a '14. To be honest, I kinda like the caramel staining. It adds character to the card. And that's as strong a two as you will ever find. The centering is perfect, and the eye appeal is just beautiful. Good luck. If you decide to go ahead, I'll be keeping my fingers crossed that everything goes as planned.

Joshua-you're killing me. Tell me you didn't actually pull that out of a pack. Oh, and it's a PB. That kicks the cool factor up for me. My favorite back. I love the dark blue with white lettering. Nice pick up! I want to add one of those so badly, and it has nothing to do with the demand. That's one of the coolest cards in the set.



See, guys, it's nights like this one, when I can scroll through the pickup thread, and see some really incredible pieces of history. It just makes me fall in love with our hobby all over again. Literally. We hear about the idiots like Mr. Mint, and shilling, and people trying to sell fakes. It could be easy to get discouraged. But I come here, and it's like Cher slapping me five across the eyes. "Snap out of it!"

In the grand scheme of things, when it comes to my own collection, I'm still a newborn. I'm learning how to crawl. But now I've got my big boy pants on, and I'm ready to start building. You guys inspire me. You really do. And I love seeing everybody enjoying themselves.

/chapeau. I tip my hat to you all.

Bill