Jen, what a great post!
 
Getting first ferret, Mikette, at petstore                  $99
Bedding, toys, and treats to make Mikette feel at home     $100's
Vet bills to keep Mikette healthy                         $1,000's
Mikette digging at the blanket to get close, then curling up against me
priceless
[Posted in FML issue 4496]