We all knew this day was coming since the news first broke last May. Yet no matter how inevitable it was, the sadness is still there.
I was lucky enough to meet The Kid on two different occasions, both as it turns out in 2008. The first time was at Barnes & Noble in midtown Manhattan. Gary was signing copies of his book “Still A Kid At Heart.” I picked up 3 – one for myself and one each for my brother and sister. When I got to Gary he was so friendly – asked me why I was getting the three books, and then proceeded to personalize each one with a different message in each. A small thing yes but it really added a personal touch. Gary had no problem taking pictures either, and even waited and joked when my flash took a while to warm up:
Several weeks later the All-Star FanFest came to the Javits Center. Gary was was one of the featured Hall Of Famers signing on the day I was attending. Rather than have him sign a ball or bat, I wanted something special. As I’ve posted before, I attended the 86 Tickertape Parade and took a number of pictures, the best one was of Gary smiling looking up at the crowds. I printed out an 8×10 copy and took it with me. When I got to Gary I showed him the picture and told him I had taken it. I remember he looked at me and asked if I was 10 when I took it (I was 19 actually). He got quite a kick from the picture and started showing it to a few people standing nearby. He eventually signed it (and it was immediately authenticated). Having him not only sign a picture I took, but actually enjoy looking at it – well you can imagine the thrill.
I have a few other pieces of Carter memorabilia, including the poster handed out at Gary Carter Day, when he was inducted into the Mets Hall of Fame, but none hold a candle to these moments. I’m glad I had them, and I’m glad I can share them.
Very nice post, thanks for sharing.