Hi, everyone! The symposium was a blast . . . even if I was hobbling around on crutches getting into everyone's way. I had plenty of offers to help carry and cart things and I very much appreciate it. Thanks, everyone! Even BIG got into the act . . . he found my glasses . . . by stepping on them . . . a little. The shelter dinner was yummy and I started meeting attendees there after being carried up the stairs by Ross (fellow club member) and Barb's husband, Roy. Of course, I was sitting on the floor next to the cage w/ my DMK girls in it so I could pick them up and cuddle them. Boy, were they peeved w/ me! I got several nips and had to say, "No bite!" a lot but it was worth it to have my hands on them again. I wish I could have gotten around to talking to more of the folks but my mobility is very much in question. Friday's high point had to be the Video Contest. Talk about funny! My favorite won . . . yahoo. I learned many, many things during the talks, to the point where I felt like I knew nothing about ferrets. On Saturday we learned so much from all the vets who spoke and took time to take part in the Q&A. It was particularly good to meet Dr. Williams, whom I'd met at the first symposium held in Toronto in 1990. I also learned that I must be doing something right because there is only one case of insulinoma in my business of 12. The lunch discussion groups were both fun and helpful. Now I know sign language! [That Toronto Symposium was in 2000. BIG] Sunday was full of practical information, too. Special kudos to Barb Carlson, who only got through 1/3 of her presentation. I'm lucky, she's only a phone call away, she and my two vets (Dr. Ruth and Dr. W.) have helped me keep my kids healthy and happy despite me. The raffles were great and I did well. I'm sure some people got tired of hearing my name. Sorry, but I love, love, love my ferret butterfly and my Lewington book. As always, Jeanne Carley was entertaining and had a table full of great products (I bought 4). It was so nice to meet as many people as I did. I won't be going into a list at the risk of missing someone since I'm woefully bad at names. Thanks for your presence and companionship, it was great! And Wolfie, don't put "ferret poops" on plates if you think people are going to freak . . . I thought Fran would have a heart attack so I had to tell her to see you and ruin your fun. Pat and the Furry Inspirations [Posted in FML 6151]