I noticed that Kylie and Sara have asked about Rainbow Bridge and Sandee. I guess all us "veterans" on the FML have just assumed that someone else would answer their questions, but so far I haven't seen anything. So, Kylie and Sara, and for other new members who don't know about Rainbow Bridge, here it is. (Caution: Have a box of Kleenex handy). RAINBOW BRIDGE Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge. When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge. There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together. There is plenty of food and water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable. All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor; those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by. The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing: they miss someone very special to them who had to be left behind. They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. The bright eyes are intent; the eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to break away from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster. YOU have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart. Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together. That is the beautiful story of Rainbow Bridge. As for Sandee, she is the official ferret "greeter" for all new arrivals at the Bridge. Whenever one of our little fuzzies departs for the Bridge, a lot of us ask Sandee to check on them and show them around. Sandee is wonderful. She always grants our wishes and writes back to tell us how our departed ones are doing. She also passes messages back and forth for us. Glad to help. C.B. (Missing Maximilian) [Posted in FML issue 3719]