Wow! I'm still trying to figure out how my post could have been so misinterpreted. If I gave any of the impressions that Bob has described, I humbly apologize. I did not in any way mean to minimize the hard work, dedication, and sacrifice that Bob has put into his life's passion. I also meant all that I said: I DO think that it's wonderful that dedicated ferret folk can do research like this, and I think that it is good that you get to visit lots of different places in the course of that work. Period. I was not in any way slamming you or anyone for the possibility of having a good time. I think you SHOULD get to have a good time. I WOULD give a lot to visit Australia & New Zealand and meet ferret folks there. Right now I'm not in a position to do that. Maybe someday I will. And I'm happy for Lori that she is apparently doing better. The last thing I had heard things were looking grim for her. Now they don't seem to be. That's a good thing. Again, I deeply apologize if my words caused hurt, and I'm also deeply baffled at what I thought was a positive post could cause such hurt. Kevin Farlee [Posted in FML 5987]