Bart/Bartholomew/Barty ferret Lynn, thank you for sharing those pictures with me the other day. You know they are all kept in the computer, till i can figure out how to get them all together, i found a picture for Diane Taylor of her Nova, so she can put it on her web page. Bart was a prescious gift of life, and he was one of the fortunate ones to find a home and a loving mommy in you. I know what you are going through, all the emotions of remembering...i think it triggered the sharing of the photographs, reminiscing? We could all use some comforting now and then, when we feel the loss of one of these fun loving little beings. I hope that there is someone near you that can just give you a hug now and then, it is not alright, but it helps to feel that someone understands. Human touch, as well as the love and closeness of furred bodies helps in the healing process, too. Maybe some of that Bach Flower that Mary Conley has written about is in need? I got tea and a cup from Diddy, and today, and even in the winter time when the cold wind blows i am going to sit and enjoy that cup, the tea, and think of the wonderful/compassionate people i have met here, and all their beloved little and big ones including those in between, skinned/feathered/furred. I remember a story about a nurse in a nursery, and ill babies, how when her duty was over, she would hold the last one, for awhile, and just how that baby thrived, from human touch... I have shared this with others, and now, in loving memory of another Beloved Ferret Bartholomew Do not stand at my grave and weep I am not there, i do not sleep I am a thousand winds that blow I am the diamond glints on the snow I am the sunlight on ripened grain I am the gentle autumn rain When you awake in the morning hush I am the swift uplifting rush of quiet birds in circling flight I am the soft stars that shine at night Do not stand at my grave and cry I am not there, i did not die. Rest in peace little Barty boy, it is your earthly mother, that loved you who's heart is aching right now. [Posted in FML issue 3882]