Flashback: The Christmas Duck

One of the hazards for a Husky fan living in Eugene is that everywhere you go you're surrounded by Ducks! Green and yellow are the colors of this town, and loyalty to their hometown Ducks is stronger than their loyalty to their own friends or families (at least that's how it seems). This is a fiercely spirited town. I've never experienced this much school spirit! Could be that the school is the largest employer in town, or that their beloved football team almost became national champions this year. And although I remain a loyal Husky fan, it's hard not to fall in love with Puddles, their mascot. He must be the long-lost brother of Donald because they look the same!

Last month, UO's new Jaqua Center for Student Athletes, a building mostly restricted to any non-athletes, threw open their doors for a Christmas party and we were invited. The building is gorgeous. Built by Phil Knight of Nike fame, it is a state-of-the-art building that evokes school spirit out of even the most hesitant fan. The halls are lined with the names of every student athlete to ever attend the school, the names of their all-star athletes are etched in the glass, in the walls, and on the floors. The main classroom has bright yellow Maserati leather seats with the Oregon "O" punched in the bottom of each one. It's truly an outstanding building.

The main attraction that night, and the real reason I wanted to go to the party, was Puddles. He was dressed like Santa and they were doing free pictures for kid and fans alike. Jonathan was so excited and kept talking about going to see Donald. When he finally got to meet him, Jonathan became super shy and clung to his daddy like glue.

Fortunately, Puddles was entertaining and patient and finally got Jonathan to let go and smile. As soon as Puddles gave him a hug, Jonathan was won over. He kept talking about him all night as we took our tour of the building and threw a tantrum when we went to leave without saying good-bye. We told him that Puddles had to go home and go to bed, too. That seemed to make things better.

I'll admit that seeing Jonathan and Puddles together was a highlight of the season. Hopefully next Christmas we'll get to see Jonathan with Dubs the Husky.