The poster brought up a great, great point about the newer high costs
of postal service regarding packages. Might I add a suggestion? For
those who wish to send a lot or heavy things, perhaps you could buy
presents that would fit in one single flat rate box, and then put a
gift card in there for bigger things you were going to buy for them.

I really believe the whole concept of the tree creation by Judy Cook
was to treat the ferrets like "kids". To give them the opportunity to
experience something they deserve and that some possibly never had
before, to feel included in a family Christmas. Something coming in the
mail for them for once. A special present with wrapping and bows for
them to open by themselves. New smells and discoveries. I believe they
very well can sense the difference between a mom coming home with
"stuff" for them, and the excitement they feel emanating through the
house when a "big something" arrives in the mail just for them. They
sense the excitement the operator feels when it arrives. The curiosity
of the mailman that perhaps came to the door to deliver a package to
"The Bates Ferrets", or "Ping, Pong, Rocky, Dippy and Laddie Stout".
The unique, infectious, spiritual feeling that comes only once a year.
It is for the senders as well. It's so they can experience the
connection. They can donate all year. I believe the intent was the
experience. Not for the donation.

But alas times change. Postage is horrendous. There has been an
economic tragedy. So, sure gift cards are a great option. But, maybe....
they can come in a wrapped box along with a sack and treats inside a
very affordable flat rate box? I'm so glad someone brought this up.
Because if it helps the sender and reciever out so that there is not a
lessor income, that is always preferable. I just wanted to add my two
cents about my friend Judy, whom I was with when brewed up the idea.

Wolfy

[Posted in FML 6858]