Setting Some Goals

As we enter 2026, it is natural to reflect on the past and set new goals. While 2025 may have been successful for many, it was a difficult chapter for me—one I would have gladly skipped to arrive at today. 

On a personal level, the year was marked by the loss of two friends and health challenges that kept me away from fishing far more than I would have liked. These struggles extended to my hobbies as well; computer issues and personal setbacks led to mixed results for both my card collecting and my blog. In fact, 2025 saw the fewest number of posts in the blog's history, and I fell short of my set-completion goals. 

I am eager for a fresh start and a more productive 2026.

There were really only two goals I set for 2025.  That was to complete a vintage set (failed) and to reduce my collection (sort of did this since I sold off about 37k cards but I bought a lot more).  Therefore I'll skip a full review and move right into some 2026 goals.

1) Complete the run of Topps baseball for the 70's.  I am 130 cards away from doing so.
2) Complete a shiny set like 2024 Topps Chrome FB.
3) Complete an insert set or two - maybe that 1980-81 basketball insert set.
4) Reset my card collecting room.  This is more of a stretch goal then a true target to hit as it will be challenging but it is necessary.  That room is a disaster.

I think that's enough for now.  Let's look at some stats:
Blog views were way up, nearly 75% more than 2024.

The most popular post was my travel post from July, it far exceeded any post from prior years.

Top referrals were once again; google, TCDB and Nine Pockets

Now let's look at some favorite acquistions:

Love this wood engrained card.  I might chase more of these.

It was hard to choose from my Arraez acquisitions but this one stood out.  Super cool card.

Of course anyone who reads this blog knew this card would make the list.

Did anyone guess a checklist would make it?  No?  For set collectors, checklists are one of the joys in life.  To find a 1957 4th/5th series checklist with the Bazooka back was incredible.  I had been looking to get this card at an 'affordable' price for a long, long time.  And bonus - it's unmarked!

This mid-70's Calbee of Sadaharu Oh made the list because I've admired Japan's all-time home run hitter for a long time.  To finally own a few cards from his playing days is just awesome.

There are a few more cards that could have made this list, but I'm trying to keep it short.

So here's to hoping for a much better 2026 and until next time happy hunting!