Nice gesture Sean!
I started back in '83. While rummaging through our garage I came across a box of cards ranging from '74-'76. Inside was a Yount mini rookie and I was instantly hooked. I then begged my mom everyday to take me to 7-11 so I could buy as many Fleer packs as I could. I continued buying Topps, Fleer, Donruss and any other items that included baseball cards.
My hobby story is in June 11, 1990 I went to a big show in SF and my goal was to buy a really nice Nolan Ryan rookie card. So once I got in I began my hunt. I saw many candidates but wanted to make sure I looked at everything before I pulled the trigger so I passed on them. Well the bad news for me was June 11, 1990 happened to be the day that Nolan Ryan threw his sixth no-hitter. Once that news spread the price of his rookie card jumped so much I was priced out. I probably could have bought a lesser condition card but I was honestly ticked off that the price just skyrocketed in a matter of minutes. So I left without a Ryan rookie. I'm still reminded to this day about it by my mom. Whenever I want a card she always reminds me I better get one before they get too expensive! Thanks mom!!
Live and learn I guess.
I still have the Yount rookie (pictured below) that sent me down this crazy obsession for these dang cardboard pictures. I also still have a bunch of my original '83-'87 cards as well. It's still fun to break those out and reminisce.
Thanks Sean for having a generous offer.
