I, too, would have preferred that HL stay with the smaller size (and price) for the '99 event piece. I've often used the event piece (in the form of a gift) to introduce others to the world of Harbour Lights. It had always been an affordable and excellent example of HL's quality work. No way I can afford to gift potential collectors with this years piece! I also liked the smaller size since it lent itself well to filling in small gaps between some of the full size pieces on the display shelves. That's no longer the case.
Since I'm a wacko collector (like so many others who frequent this forum), I'll buy the piece and be happy with it; however, I still think HL make a mistake with this move.