I know this is off topic and please forgive me for posting.

My mother recently passed away. She had been ill for a number of years,
but always fought back with grace and dignity. She held out to see the
birth of her great-granddaughter and told me the cycle was complete --
one for one. When it was clear that the end was near, we took her from
the hospital so she could sleep in her own bed. She passed on quietly
at home in the company of close family. Her dachshund was in bed beside
her.

My love of animals, especially of ferrets, can be traced back to my
mother. She taught me that all life was special and worthy of respect
and dignity. Anything I have said, everything I have penned, all that I
have researched and taught, has been done because of her influence.

Despite her poor health, she made the trip from California to visit me
some time ago. She met my ferrets for the first time, and they danced
and leaped all around her. I can still hear her laughter as they chased
each other around the room. One, Peter, became known as Bumblebum
because of his antics. I will never forget how she cradled the sick
ones and whispered prayers for their recovery. She was especially fond
of Zima and threatened to steal her when she left.

I will be offline for a short time. I have posted this here because
many ferret friends are awaiting emails from me, and I just can't force
myself to do much email. They deserved to know why I am not responding,
especially to their holiday messages. I'll get back to work in a few
days.

Bob C  [log in to unmask]

[Posted in FML 5471]