Originally published Tuesday, December 22, 2009

The holiday season is a time when our families are in our hearts, and my dad, who is always in my thoughts, is especially sorely missed this time of year. He loved Christmas more than anyone else I have ever known. This will be my fourth Christmas without him. I suppose this should make me feel sad, but instead I’m filled with joy. My dad gave me so much love and happiness, and we shared so many things–a love of reading; working crossword puzzles; the joy of learning. He’ll always be with me.

It was my dad who gave me my love of football. I already told you, dear reader, how my dad taught me about football and how I became a fan of the Buffalo Bills through him. And through Cookie Gilchrist. So imagine how thrilled I was, not to mention surprised and totally blown away, when I opened a present from my dearest husband on the Winter Solstice and found this:

Yes, dear reader, that’s Cookie Gilchrist’s 1964 Topps football card. Here’s the back of the card:

OMG! Best present ever!

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