Have yourself a Harry little Christmas

In the summer of 2000, I worked nights and weekends. So, disappointingly, I had to miss Harry Kalas tribute night at the Vet. The giveaway to all fans, to commemorate the broadcaster's 30th year with the Phillies, was this talking Harry doll - you hit the bottom of it, and he gave an "It's outta here" home run call. I really wanted one, but I just didn't have enough vacation time to take off that Saturday night, July 29.

However, my dad ended up going to the game with his friend who had season tickets. I was psyched because I thought he would bring home the doll for me. But when I got home - no Harry. The next day - no Harry. By the next weekend - no Harry.

I asked my mom if my dad had even brought home the giveaway. She said no, he didn't. She thought he may have left it at the stadium or gave it to his friend for his kids - an understandable scenario, since they were his friend's tickets. Oh well. I forgot about it, and the Phillies finished the season with an outstanding 65-97 record - Terry Francona's last year in Philly.

I was 23 when this happened. And, of course, by 23, Christmas has lost some of its magic. I knew what I was getting for Christmas from my parents, and what I didn't know already, I was able to figure out as soon as I picked up the packages. But then I came across a small squishy one that I couldn't guess - it was my talking Harry Kalas doll. My dad had brought it home and asked my mom to wrap it up for me for Christmas. It may be my best baseball-related Christmas surprise.

I wonder if Greg has any Phillies surprises for me this year - we'll catch up on all the goodies tomorrow. Until then, enjoy the holiday.

(Postscript: Harry, sadly, doesn't talk anymore. A few years ago, he started saying "shkshhikhshkdkhsh" instead of the home run call, usually for about five minutes at a time instead of the programmed 10 seconds or so, but now he's silent. But he's still a happy reminder of that Christmas.)