The gifts have all been opened, the company has all gone home and the rest of the family and the ferrets are all sleeping. I have been sitting here thinking about the events of the past year. It has been a year filled with ups and downs for me-including some serious health issues and some bitter disappointments. I was rudely awakened to the fact that things aren't always what they seem to be and comfort and security are fragile things that can change overnight. The one thing that has remained constant and unchanging in my life over the last few months has been the dedication and devotion I have witnessed the FML unwavering give to support our ferrets in need. There are many wonderful fundraising events on the FML and I have been very proud to be a part of one of them-The FML Card Exchanges. I am constantly amazed by the people who cannot afford to donate, yet they include a dollar or two in their card with a note apologizing that it could not be more. To me, it's not the amount that you give....it's that fact that you cared enough TO GIVE! All of those dollars when placed together will pay for an adrenal surgery...or a lupron shot....or a bag of food or food supplements for a ferret in a shelter. As the year draws to an end, I want to thank everyone who has participated in the card exchanges. This event is a success because of you!! Christmas is an emotional time for me anyway, but opening and reading some of the cards I received-seeing the generosity and love you have for our ferrets touched my very soul. You guys are truly amazing! Somehow saying Thank You doesn't seem like quite enough! There are still some cards yet to come in so I will wait until the weekend to give a final report. Thank you all and I hope your Christmas was filled with friends, family and ferrets! Judy Cooke Support Our Shelters [Posted in FML issue 4008]