Even though this is the season when most of us become acutely aware of giving more of our time and money, I'd like to just say what a valuable and wonderful feeling it is to remain charitable all year through. I know that I have met some of the most charitable and unselfish people since becoming a fuzzy parent. But I'd like to just bring attention to some things that perhaps some newcomers don't realize and the seasoned veterans may have forgotten. For one thing, I discovered my time is one of the most precious things I can give to my local shelter. And by time I mean committing to cleaning cages, transporting ferrets and picking them up, helping with ear, nails and bath day, fostering, manning booths for adoptathons or even addressing and folding flyers. What you'll get to take with you is an abundance of knowledge (and funny stories) from other volunteers, the undying gratitude, and a TON of knowledge, from the Shelter Owners, and the love in the eyes and snuggles of a WHOLE LOT of weasels. Of course all Shelters are in much need of financial assistance all the time. And I do what I can, when I can. I am fortunate enough to have more time than most to volunteer, but every little bit helps, even one day a month! So the next time you look into those soulful little eyes on that fuzzy little face, think about how you may be able to help all the others that have been abandon or lost and most importantly how we can help our shelters.....after all even though each of us may want to, we can't adopt them all, and until hopefully their new parents come, the shelter is their home. This isn't meant to make anyone feel bad, I strictly wanted to share what I got from volunteering and how passionate I feel about it. Happy Holidays to all, Kelly and the redneck ferret gang, bun bun and chi chi p.s. just one more thing, my 12 yr old daughter helps as well and there are a couple of other girls close to her age that volunteer cleaning cages... on their own to boot! I think this is a great opportunity to teach our children compassion and generosity. ok NOW I'll get off my soapbox...hee, hee Take Care Everyone and have a safe and sane Holiday. [Posted in FML issue 4343]