Chere (Ferret Friends of Indian River County Ferret shelter), I just want to thank you for the Angel of Peace Ferret that now sits on top of my tree. It just arrived today. It is so pretty. (Barbara, you did a wonderful job) I am so glad that I was able to get one. But even if I hadn't, I still would have pitched in some money. I hope that next year you all are able to have these up on the FML and maybe even on Ebay - I think they would sell fast on there too! Others have said it before but I will say it again, this ferret community is unlike any other I have ever known. Everyone pulls together and helps out a little. It is really amazing what can be done with the donations sent in by a lot of people. When you think about sending $5 off to a shelter you wonder if it will help. Then you read about the others that were helped from small donations that added up and you see that it does really help. This ferret family is one that I am proud to belong to. To Donna and the Angel Ferret Shelter....I hope that you are able to keep the shelter open and that the money and well wishes that were sent in will help in some way. Sometimes, just knowing that others are out there and that are thinking of you to send a card gives you so much more strength. To Donna and Eppy.....my heart is still with you. I wish I could give you a hug and make everything better. But all I can say, is that we are here with you and are praying for you and for Eppy. I think that with your story and since you have kept us all so informed, that we are all keeping a closer eye on our loved ones (human and animal). I cannot fix what has happened. I can tell you that I love my critters every single day and remind myself that time is precious. Something's happen for a reason though we do not know why. Eppy was lost, and yet you were able to help another little girl cross over to the bridge. She was no longer cold and alone. That still brings tears to my eyes because I know that she was loved and cared for - if only for a couple minutes. I hope that everyone has a very wonderful Christmas. Remember, Christmas is about giving. It does not have to be money, but of love, support, a kind word or even a hug. To those who have lost their loved ones this year, always remember that they are in a better place and free from all pain. They will enjoy this holiday season as they look down on your family. Keep them in your hearts. --- I loved the poem A Visit to the Bridge by The Water Weasels... it made my eyes fill with tears (so did my bf but don't tell him I told you!) Merry Christmas (or my new word...Merry Ferretis!) Joanne, Spice, Pepper Flower and Bugs P.S. CJLadybug - how is Kismet doing? You had posted that he was sick. Also, I would like to know about sponsoring a permanent shelter ferret. Is there a web-site that I could go to or could one be started? [Posted in FML issue 3639]