Greetings and welcome to the wonderful world of Giants bobblehead collecting.
You are now part of one of the grandest traditions in baseball and as a Giants fan, also one of the largest.
If you are just starting out with your collection, here are some helpful things to know in advance.
Bobbleheads are art.
There are some of us who take this hobby very seriously, as each one is a custom crafted sculpture.
Like a fine wine or aged cheese, bobbleheads are each unique in their own subtle way.
Bobbleheads are a serious business.
Some people out there make thousands of dollars buying and selling bobbleheads each year.
If you are uncertain about the seller you are dealing with, please ask someone for advice.
Bobbleheads are addicting.
Once you get a couple bobbleheads in your house, they will be all over the place.
I started with two in 2003 and now I have over 100 of them.
Bobbleheads are expensive.
If you attempt to add significantly to your collection, prepare to spend a significant amount of money .
Remember, it's wife, kids, food, shelter, clothes, taxes, Giants' tickets, and then bobbleheads.
Do not try to collect them all.
The temptation to try to own them all is overwhelming, but you must learn to control yourself.
I would suggest only collecting your favorite players first until you can afford the rest.
Growth without expense is possible.
There are plenty of collectors like myself who do not like buying and prefer to do trades.
Stock up on the popular ones you can get cheap and trade up to get the ones you want.
Try not to get divorced.
Bobbleheads are not for everyone. Not everyone understands. Ask permission if you must.
I've met plenty of people whose bobblehead collections reside in their attic or garage.
Buyer Beware.
Always inspect the bobblehead when you get it. The Giants are very good at exchanging them if they are broken.
Do not deal with anyone who demands that you mail them a check or cash first as they will disappear on you.
Trade safe.
If you are doing a face to face trade, please do so out in the open, in a public place, with other people around.
Never meet at someone's house. Especially your own. Never meet at night or anywhere you are do not know well.
You are not alone.
There are thousands of Giants fans out there who collect bobbleheads.
You will find many of us on the bobbleboard forum. Ask for advice.